Johnsen Family

Chickenpox at 3 months old!!!

2012-01-11T21:51:00.000-08:00

So, in the past 3 weeks or so, Lucas stopped sleeping and eating well. He has been extra fussy. Didn't know what was wrong. Then, last Thursday I noticed a bump on his forehead and two on the back of his head. They looked like baby acne to me. Well the next day (Friday), while changing his diaper, I notice a ton more all over his body. Took him in to see a doctor, and after seeing two doctor's, it might be chickenpox! Maybe that's why he was so fussy and not sleeping well. He's never had a fever though. It's been really tough these past few weeks. Not much sleep going on here. Lucas was prescribed medicine to help with the symptoms. We should find out the results soon from the testing they did on some of the bumps. Poor little guy.

These pictures were taken the day I took him to the doctor's. Saturday they were even worse, and Sunday just a few more. I think they stopped appearing and are now scabbing over. I couldn't help but think about my mom taking care of four kids with chickenpox at the same time, in an rv while camping out for our home. She definitely had it worse!

Trying new things

2012-01-11T21:32:00.001-08:00

In the past 2 months, I have been wanting to make new things. I think the Dinner-in-a-Pumpkin started it! Thanks to my old ward's cookbook as well as Betty Crocker, I was able to make some pretty yummy treats. Just about everything I made turned out very good, just ask Todd!

Oreo Truffles: I got the recipe from the internet. We were given something like this from a good friend of ours a few years ago that we absolutely loved. I wanted to try it. The hard part was melting the white chocolate. I also reserved too much cookie for sprinkling and therefore, didn't have enough in the balls. Oh well, next time.

Peanut Brittle: Betty Crocker. It turned out SO good! It was perfect! Thanks to my mother-in-law, I have a candy thermometer. That was the secret. I have to be careful when using peanuts or peanut butter, because Christopher is allergic. Poor guy!

These were Peanut Butter Cup cookies: A very good friend of mine put this recipe in my old ward's cookbook. These were our absolute favorite this year. Todd even had me make these for his department party.

Some other things I made (sorry, no pictures) were different Graham Cracker Toffees (Christopher's favorite was a Graham Cracker toffee -no nuts- with chocolate and crushed candy cane!), and Almond Crunch, both recipe's were in the ward cookbook! They turned out really good too! It's been fun. My sister's and I had our annual baking day just before Christmas, which was fun. Christopher and I also had a baking day with our neighbors. Fun times!!

Disneyland: We're Back!!!

2012-01-11T21:14:00.000-08:00

Well, we were able to get annual passes to Disneyland again. I have missed it SO much. We saved our Disney dollars and were able to buy the cheapest passes. I loved having premium passes, but can't afford it this time. Anyway, we only have one car so it will take more planning when we go. For a long time, Christopher has wanted to go to Disneyland. We always told him that it costs too much money, but when we get a lot of money, we can go again. He also wanted to go for his birthday. A funny story is that Christopher and I were riding with my dad to visit Juliana (my sister) and her family in Artesia. He stopped at a bank and pulled some money out of an ATM. Christopher immediately said, "Oh wow grandpa, you have a lot of money. Now we can go to Disneyland!" Poor kid was disappointed when he found out that it wasn't enough to go to Disneyland. But we are finally back! I'm SO excited. Christopher too. We went for Christopher's birthday (Dec 20) and have already been this month too. Both days we stayed ALL DAY.

On Lucas' first visit, the only ride he went on was The Little Mermaid at California Adventures. He enjoyed it, for the most part! Then when we returned earlier this month, he got to go on Pirate's of the Carribean, Winnie the Pooh, Crush, and Casey Jr.. He also spent a lot of time in the Art of Annimation. I LOVE that room. It's amazing.

More Disneyland

2012-01-11T20:54:00.001-08:00

We wanted him to try and be picked for the Jedi Training Academy, but he was too shy. He enjoyed watching it though. In fact, Todd and I caught him the other day acting it out. He definitely remembered what they were saying, cause it felt like we were there!

Lots of 1st times this trip! Including Star Tours (also our first time since they changed it) He liked it but won't go on it again. He says he doesn't like it when Darth Vader shows up. He also doesn't like the shooting because it's "too loud". He is so funny cause he LOVES the drums, but when we can't control the sound, he hates loud noise (fireworks-although he has come a long way).
1st time on Splash Mountain. He liked it but wouldn't go on it again with me! When we went back in Jan, he went on it 2 times!!

Christopher's 1st time on Space Mountain!!

He LOVES this ride!!

This is actually from the second time we went (Jan)

Before I forget, Christopher was feeling brave and wanted to go on Tower of Terror when we went this month. He was unsure by the time he and Todd got on the ride. Then wouldn't you know, it broke down after they had fallen twice. Long story short, when their elevator was transfered to another, he didn't want to go (I wouldn't either!). It was so fun to be able to see him go on so many new rides now that he is tall enough. I think we were able to do much more when we went this month. Todd does a good job of collecting Fastpasses throughout the day which helps with the lines. I am SO excited to be a passholder again!!! I love Disneyland.

Building a Lightsaber!!

2012-01-11T16:34:00.000-08:00

For Christopher's birthday, daddy helped him make his very own lightsaber! He was SO happy! It's pretty cool. It makes noises. The next day, I told him not to hit anything with it, but he informed me that it makes different noises when you hit things. Oh no. So he has to be VERY careful with it. We've been trying to teach him pretend play. A lot of things seem to be very real to him.

Christopher's New Friend!

2012-01-11T16:24:00.001-08:00

Uncle Danny (Todd's brother) got a new boxer puppy, Willis, for Christmas. Christopher loves to play with (Lewis/Willis!) him as long as he remembers to wear pants, cause Willis loves to jump and bite right now! They like to play chase, but when Chris is done, sometimes he tries to run away from Willis but doesn't understand that if he runs, Willis will run after him!

Trip to LA Temple!

2012-01-11T16:15:00.000-08:00

Christopher, Lucas and I were able to go with Todd to the LA Temple. He was going with the Young Men and Young Women in our ward. I'm so glad we went. Eventhough it was after Christmas, they still had the lights up. Beautiful!! We had fun seeing the new visitor's center. They have a lot of interactive things there. Christopher had fun coloring on a screen, when he had a chance (it was a busy night and there were always other kids there). I hope we can go back soon.

Christmas 2011

2012-01-11T15:37:00.000-08:00

I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas! We sure did!!

Lucas just being his happy self! Christopher and I were decorating for Christmas while Lucas was content laying on the floor.

Christopher waited all year to bring this back out! He loves trains and the Polar Express. If he had it his way, he would watch the movie at least once a week all year!

Christopher helped me put our Christmas calendar together. He did a great job placing the dates in the correct spaces. Such a smartie!!

Lucas' Blessing

2012-01-11T15:29:00.001-08:00

Lucas was blessed on November 27. Since Tami and Scott were here from Utah, they were able to come. We weren't able to get very many pictures after the blessing, so I'm glad I took some before the blessing! Lucas was able to wear the blessing outfit that Christopher wore! Such a cutie!

Christopher and Build-A-Bear!

2012-01-10T20:37:00.000-08:00

In Novemebr, a friend of Chris' had a birthday party at Build a Bear. Besides being so tired and cranky (It was during his quiet/nap time), He had fun. He picked a bear and named him Jess (?). The outfit Christopher picked was a blue baseball jersey (guess who?). It's been fun to see him take care of Jess.

Lucas 3 Months

2012-01-10T20:13:00.001-08:00

December 14- Lucas is growing so fast. He loves standing. It's fun to hear him giggle and smile. Christopher still LOVES being an older brother. Lucas has been so good about sleeping. I can swaddle him real good, give him his pacifier, and he will be out. Occasionally, I'll have to put the pacifier back in, but for the most part it works great! He resently started placing his hand on the back of his head and ear. Some sort of comfort thing! We still give him his Zantac.

Lucas 2 Months

2011-11-19T22:49:00.000-08:00

Time is flying by! We spent Lucas' 2 month birthday by staying at my parent's and riding the train into LA the next morning. Todd would have joined us if he didn't have work. We left a little later than we wanted but it worked out. We hopped on in San Bernardino and took it to Union Station. There, we walked across the street to Olvera St and had the usual "special". It was yummy, as always. After lunch, we rode the Subway to El Capitan Theatre and got Sundaes at the Soda Fountain restaurant. I ordered a Peppermint Sundae which was AWESOME. It had peppermint ice cream, hot fudge, marshmellow cream, whipped cream, and a cherry! Then we headed back home. Lucas was asleep for most of the day. He had a hard time on the way home, but made it. He is still spitting up a lot, but I think that the pain is going away. Oh yea, he is on Zantac (peppermint flavor, which I think is weird for a baby!). We're also trying Gripe Water, which helps. We go through SO many burp cloths! Lucas sleeps pretty good. Pretty soon I'm going to put him in his crib. He and Christopher will share a room. The other room is a playroom. I finally feel like I'm starting to get into a groove with him. He is such a joy. Our Lucas is staying awake longer between naps, he discovered his hand and likes to put it in his mouth (he also takes a pacifier, thank goodness! Christopher never did.), smiling, cooing, and loving his big brother. We've started putting size 3-6 month clothes on him! At his 2 month appt, he weighed 12 and 1/2 lbs and was 23" long. At his 1 month he was almost 11 lbs and 22.5" long! He's growing so fast. We love him!

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-31T20:18:00.000-07:00

Carving Pumpkins!

2011-10-31T20:12:00.000-07:00

Such a good sport. He did not want to get his hands dirty!

Lucas 1 Month

2011-10-31T08:10:00.000-07:00

Time with Big Brother

2011-10-31T07:54:00.002-07:00

Christopher LOVES his baby brother! He thinks Lucas is "so so so so cute"!

More Lucas

2011-10-31T07:48:00.000-07:00

When Christopher was born, he looked so much like Todd's family and always has! I think Lucas looks more like mine! We thought for sure we'd have all brown-eyed babies, but Lucas' are still blue!!

Lucas Alexander Johnsen

2011-10-31T07:29:00.000-07:00

Lucas was born September 14, 2011 at 2:59am. He was 8 lbs 14 oz and 21 1/2 inches. The story goes: I went in for a routine appt (39wks) and there were signs of preeclampsia. As a result, I was sent to the lab for more testing and then back to Labor&Delivery for observation. Tests/everything was fine. I was having contractions, but they were going to send me home. We live 45 minutes from our hospital! Luckily, a doctor came in and said I was being admitted! This was about 6pm. I got an epidural, some sleep, and then pushing time! Did a few pushes and he was out! Welcome to the world Lucas!!! (More to come)

Christopher's 1st Day of Pre-School!

2011-10-27T20:49:00.000-07:00

Christopher LOVES his Pre-School! His teacher is Ms Emily (who is in our ward at church). There are three boys and three girls. He looks forward to every Tues and Thurs.

Christopher had something he wanted to share!

2011-03-17T15:47:00.000-07:00

It's about time I announce that I'm pregnant. As of today, I am 13 weeks along. The baby is due September 20. I let our immediate family know the end of January, but I haven't been in a hurry to tell anyone else because I have felt SO miserable. I'm not even very excited about it yet. Sad, I know. It's just that I'm still not feeling well. My morning sickness lasts all day. If I felt better, I think I would be more excited for this pregnancy. I am hoping that keeping up my blog will help me. We will hopefully find out what we are having, on May 3. That's my 20 wk appt. I will be honest and say I am nervous that it's a girl. I'm sorta partial to boys. I really wanted a boy with Chris and thankfully got my wish. I'm just scared to have a daughter. Since I feel so different with this pregnancy, I feel that maybe it's some sort of sign that I'm having a girl, but who really knows right? Christopher seems very excited. He tells me he wants to help with the baby. It will be interesting to see how he does. We have so much fun together and now we need to share that with another child. Todd is very excited. He has been so understanding about our neglected house, and me being sick all the time. I have had some serious cravings and aversions this time around. I don't remember any of this while I was pregnant with Christopher. Actually there was one time, towards the end of my pregnancy, when I craved a Wendy's frosty. That was it. And I wasn't sick like this. I loved being pregnant with Christopher. Maybe part of that was because he was my first and I had no other pregnancies to compare it to. This one is completly different. I guess my only negative feeling about Chris' pregnancy was gaining 50 lbs. So far I've gained 4 lbs with this pregnancy. We'll see what happens in the next few months! Anyway, just thought I would post an update. Until the next one...

I know, it's been a while!

2010-09-05T15:51:00.000-07:00

Well, where to begin... we've moved and settled into our home in Hemet, CA. We absolutely love it! We have a great home, and great ward. I have my own washer and dryer, a backyard, and space! Christopher is potty-trained. I'm the primary chorister and love it. Although it still scares me! Chris is doing better in primary. He still has a hard time in singing/sharing time. Our ward splits Jr and Sr primary up and Jr meets first for singing/sharing time. That's a long time for a three-year-old to sit! First Sacrament, and then primary! He is getting better though. I really wish his tempers were better controlled. We're working on that one. I took myself out of school for the time being (long story). It's been very hard getting used to being a stay-at-home mom. I haven't gotten used to it yet, because I am so unorganized. We are just living day by day, trying to have some fun along the way. Todd is in his 3rd year of teaching at La Sierra High School. Every year we aren't sure if he will be pink slipped or not, so that's not a comfort. We take it a year at a time. But, he enjoys teaching and is so good at it. We have enjoyed seeing family and enjoy every minute we are with them! We feel so blessed to live close to our immediate families (with the exception of Tami and Scott, who live in Orem! But we were FINALLY able to see their home this summer and stay with them for a while!). Christopher loves to be with his cousins. We had a pretty fun summer. Todd and my Disneyland passes expired and since we've bought a new home, we can't afford renewing them. I miss it terrible. The drive helps me a little though. It used to take us 45-50 minutes to get there, and now it takes us a good hour and a half. Not too fun when you like to go so much! Anyway, all is well over here! I should post some pictures soon.

Christopher is Officially a Sunbeam!

2010-01-03T21:34:00.000-08:00

Christopher went to primary today, for the first time. He didn't really understand that he won't be going to nursery anymore, but I think he did pretty good for just turning 3! He is so young for sunbeams! They had to come get me with about 30 minutes left in Relief Society. He was using his panic cry. After wiping his nose, I went back to his class with him. While in there, it was confirmed even more to me that it's going to take a LONG time for him to adjust to Primary. I'm giving it 6 months! We'll see. He did look pretty proud going to church though! We love him to pieces!

And So, My Second Quarter Begins!

2010-01-02T22:43:00.000-08:00

I have had a blast these past three weeks off of school and am now ready to take on a new quarter. Now, all I have to do is try to stay focussed and not worry too much about getting into a new house (Yeah right, wish me luck on that one!). It's so hard. My goal over the break was to get Christopher potty-trained. Well, it didn't happen. All of a sudden he was just not interested. I didn't really want to force him either. I'm just going to have to wait until we get a house (when I can finally have a washer and dryer) and when I know we will be at home for a few days! My course load is lighter for this quarter as I dropped Bio which inlcuded a lab. With that class, I would have been at school from 8-7 Tuesdays and Thursdays, not including travel time from Hemet! Besides, 16 units is too much for any mommy of three-year-old Christopher Aaron Johnsen! 12 is my absolute limit. At least I was able to get all my classes on two days. Winter quarter, here I come!

Escrow Again

2010-01-02T22:33:00.000-08:00

Well, on New Year's Eve, we got a bite! One of the eight offers (not including the previous three in Hemet/San Jacinto) we sent in the day before was accepted and we should be opening escrow again Monday! Hopefully escrow will go smoothly. I know if it's meant to be, it will happen! The home is in Hemet only blocks away from my great-aunt Jerry! Today, I was able to visit with her and get an even better feel for the neighborhood, schools and ward. My dad drove Chris and I there today, and Chris just loved the six little dogs that were there (four belonged to her).

Medieval Times

2010-01-01T10:27:00.000-08:00

Todd and I were recently treated to a night at Medieval Times. I was hesitant at first to go because I thought it wouldn't be that enjoyable. However, the night proved me wrong as I did enjoy the evening. It was a blast! We sat in the second row and cheered for the red/yellow knight. He almost won! The horses were amazing as well as the falcon. Thank you Dean Family!!

Although we didn't take Christopher with us, he did enjoy playing with our souveniers!

San Diego Wild Animal Park

2009-12-27T22:52:00.001-08:00

Thanks to my in-laws, Christopher and I were able to go to the Wild Animal Park along with Todd's grandparents from Oregon, Grandma and Grandpa Robinson. We had a blast. Christopher loved walking around without a stroller! He enjoyed feeding a bird that came and sat on his arm. When we got there, there were different hands-on stations for the kids. A man was singing and had a box of instruments that said "play me" so Christopher helped himself to some sticks and banged them together making beautiful music!

2009-12-27T22:36:00.000-08:00

What is a Crismon gathering without the wii!!!

2009-12-27T22:30:00.000-08:00

Cousins at Christmas

2009-12-27T22:09:00.000-08:00

First Skates!

2009-12-27T21:57:00.000-08:00

Christopher got some skates a while ago (maybe last Christmas!) but we didn't get him a helmet and pads until this Christmas. He absolutely loved them. Don't worry, after the first few pictures I was able to tighten his helmet! Only a few falls.

Christopher's First Disney Pass!

2009-12-27T18:19:00.001-08:00

I think it's crazy that an annual pass for a 3-year-old is as much as a 30-year-old! Since Todd and I are passholders, we had to get Chris one. We went the day after his birthday and had fun as always.

2009-12-27T18:10:00.000-08:00

Christopher turned 3!

2009-12-27T17:00:00.000-08:00

First thing we did was played at the park. His favorite slide is the "uhh uhh uhh uhh" slide!

Then, it was time for presents and cake...

...and a nap! After a fun party, my family got together for dinner at the Cheesecake Factory. It was sooo good!

Merry Christmas Everyone!!

2009-12-14T23:27:00.001-08:00

2009-12-14T23:11:00.001-08:00

Family picture with Mickey Mouse!

2009-12-14T23:08:00.001-08:00

We just never get sick of Disneyland! This of course wasn't Christopher's first visit to Disneyland as his button says, but a cast member handed it to him while we waited for Casey Jr.

Chris' first time on two of Disneyland's roller coasters!

2009-12-14T23:00:00.001-08:00

This was Gadget's Coaster in Toon Town (A good warm-up to Matterhorn!)

Christopher has tried to go on Matterhorn with daddy before but chickened out at the last possible second he could have (they were buckled up and ready to go!) but this time, he did it! Although he looks scared, he had fun telling everyone about it!

2009-12-14T18:10:00.000-08:00

The first time Christopher looked at this book, it kept his attention the whole 30+ minute wait! He loves Grandma Kristie's Disneyland book.

Someday Chris will ride Big Thunder, but for now, he like to hear the people scream!!

Disneyland and More Disneyland!

2009-12-14T16:28:00.001-08:00

Family Housing Park

2009-12-14T16:18:00.000-08:00

Train/Subway trip into LA

2009-12-14T16:02:00.001-08:00

More Beach Trips!

2009-12-14T15:58:00.001-08:00

He loves the ocean!

Disneyland with cousins!

2009-12-14T15:52:00.000-08:00

Chris and his first buzzed haircut!

2009-12-14T15:42:00.000-08:00

I wanted to get his hair cut at the beginning of summer, but was too busy with classes, so it ended up being towards the end of summer. He did o.k. Better than his most recent haircut!

Pictures!!

2009-12-14T15:31:00.000-08:00

Some pictures from our summer! (I know it's late!)

Life Goes On!

2009-12-14T15:20:00.001-08:00

So, we haven't moved yet! We are looking again. The day before Thanksgiving, we placed 4 offers in the San Jacinto/Hemet area, yet a further commute for Todd and myself. We have decided to pull out of escrow for the house in Moreno Valley. Sad, frustrated, and relieved it's over. Of the 5 offers we have in for San Jacinto/Hemet, 2 are looking pretty good so far.

October was a huge month for Christopher! His vocabulary exploded! I tried writing things down it's hard to keep up. It's so much fun! He continues to bring lots of joy and laughter to our family.

I finished my first quarter at UCR! It went by so fast!! Quarters are much better than semesters. I'm not sure about my grades though, but it's over and I now have three weeks off until the next quarter starts.

Is Summer Almost Over?

2009-09-02T22:02:00.000-07:00

Wow, I have some major things to update. We finally found a house who accepted our offer and began a 30-day escrow which was suppose to close Aug 31. We haven't moved in yet! It's a long story. We did our part, our loan was approved, but the seller's side apparently had an outstanding loan that was never taken care of. I can't wait until we have our keys!!!!! We should get our keys next week sometime! Why does buying a home have to be so stressful? The house is in Moreno Valley. It's a longer commute for Todd, but not much. Only 5 or so exits more. It's 3 bed, 2 1/2 bath home. We love it. I'll post pictures after we get the keys! (I always say I'll post pictures later!!!)

I finished my schooling at RCC! I am officially a University student now! Very excited about it. I start classes Sept 24. My classes stink though cause transfers register so late and the pickin's were slim.

We continue to have fun little adventures and have enjoyed spending so much time with family. Todd's school started Aug 12 but he had to start Aug 7. It's so early this year, but he has some nice breaks in between and gets out around Memorial Day.

Christopher is very active and cute as ever. He isn't talking much yet, but he's saying some things. I can't believe he will be 3 in Dec. Primary next year?!!! He will be so young. Hopefully he will adjust.

I'm tired and have to go to sleep now. I'll post more soon. (I hope!)

What An Eventful Summer!

2009-07-15T12:56:00.001-07:00

We have had the best summer so far and it's not even half over! Highlight #1 = Todd's graduation! He is finally done! What a great feeling to have at least one of us finished. After his graduation, we went to a reunion which is Highlight #2 = We had a great time at the Weight/Johnsen reunion in St. George the later part of June. It wasn't long enough though. We wish we could have spent more time visiting with eachother, but now everyone has families of their own and are on different schedules. At the reunion we stayed in very nice condos that were twice the size of our house! We swam, BBQ'd, played a fun white elephant game, kids hit a pinata, watched Annie at Tuacahn, hiked the Narrows (I went while Todd stayed back with Chris), and ate breakfast together at the country club! It was an awesome trip. Then, I had to start summer school which brings me to Highlight #3 = Summer school. I received my grades from Spring. A-Stats, B-Eng, B-Geo, A-Geo Lab! I'm pretty happy with my grades, except English, but that's a long story. Let's just say that I don't feel comfortable at all in writing essays and am nervous for UCR. But, I passed! Summer is going great. It's only 6 weeks longs compared to the 16 week semesters. I love that it's so quick. I'm pretty confident that I will pass these classes as well, so UCR, here I come! Highlight #4 = Going to Disneyland like 4 or 5 times (I'm not really counting) including this past Monday for my brother Michael's birthday as well as last week for my sister-in-law Tami's birthday which brings me to highlight #5 = Tami's birthday week. We went to Disneyland that Wednesday(I met them after noon because of class), Huntington Beach Thursday afternoon (What a blast, Chris and I loved it and Todd tollerated it!), then Friday we went to Raging Waters (which is also a highlight by itself b/c we have passes and have gone 3 times this summer so far), and Saturday went to Studio City and went swimming at Julie and John's house (Todd's aunt and uncle) and had a great BBQ-John's are one of the best! We find ourselves ready for the next adventure! We have been having so much fun. House hunting isn't going so great. There are possibilities but no updates. Kind of bummed about that. We haven't been looking for a couple weeks now, so I think it's time to start up again. It's been fun having Todd home this summer to be able to watch Christopher while I go to classes Mon-Thurs. Christopher sure does miss not seeing his grandparents as much as he used to. I promise to post pictures soon on some of these highlights.

Spring Semester is Over!!

2009-06-13T16:55:00.000-07:00

I am so excited that my classes are over this semester. It was extra tough for me. I'm pretty confident that I passed my classes though, so all I have to do now is pass two more classes in summer (starting June22) and then I'm off to UCR in September. We are actively looking for our first home and have had some offers turned down, but are positive that if it's meant to be, we'll find one. The great thing is that now that I'm going to be a UCR student, we can stay in UCR's family housing longer if needs be.

Sleeping at the Wheel!

2009-06-13T16:51:00.000-07:00

Today, Christopher wanted to hold the wheel while his daddy, and uncles (George & Danny) played Mario Kart for the Wii. He was so tired though and fell asleep at the wheel!

Disneyland for Diana's Birthday!

2009-06-13T16:22:00.000-07:00

This is a "Crismon" favorite, but we've been bummed the last few years because they have tightened them which makes it harder to turn and you don't go as fast as we used to. I'm glad Todd went on it. As you can see, Chris just loves it!

Derek got a new set of "Cars" toys and Christopher was so excited when he pulled them out!

Here's my graduate! My mother-in-law, Kristie, surprised him with it. He will be walking for graduation Monday, June 15. I am so proud of my husband, Todd. He is amazing. We are so relieved he is finished with school for a while and canj ust focus on teaching.

I can never get tired of Disneyland! I've already been there three times since my birthday. Todd will get a pass for his birthday also. We've been saving up our Disney Dollars and gift cards! We could not have done it without them! Disneyland is so expensive now. I'm too expensive too, cause I have to get the premium pass. I want to be able to go whenever I want and not have to worry about block-out days, and it comes with parking and extra savings at restaurants and shops.

Disneyland for my birthday!

2009-06-13T15:50:00.000-07:00

I mostly went on rides Chris could go on. Lots of family joined up with us. It was fun. I am so thrilled to have an annual pass now! The only three things on my list to do, I did. 1-I got my pass 2-I ate a Mmonte Cristo Sandwich and 3-I got a Gibson Girlwaffle cone on Main Street (The line was in the bakery next door! I didn't care though! It was so good.

Christopher, my brother George, and I waited in line to see Mickey Mouse.

Later in the day, Christopher took a nap and I was able to eat a Monte Cristo Sandwich at Cafe Orleans! It's my favorite. I used to get it at the Blue Bayou, but it's kinda hard to get a reservation.

This was my desert. It was yummy!

Chritopher and his cousin Derek in the Tiki Room.

Autopia. Chris had fun with daddy.

Christopher Loves Trains!

2009-06-13T15:35:00.000-07:00

Christopher loves watching a movie at G&G Crismon's house that has real trains. He makes the "choo-choo" noise by blowing out his nose. It's cute. We can't wait to go and see Thomas the Train again. I think it's not until November sometime.

Update from the Jan Post

2009-05-04T22:42:00.000-07:00

Christopher loves nursery and the leaders are working well with the kids. What a difference. He is so proud when he walks in there. The "terrible two's" are still here but I'm trying to find different ways to help him and myself. A few things that have helped are giving him choices, calmly repeating myself, timeouts (although that one's a little hard), and just letting him cry it out (when I feel I've done what I can and can't really take it anymore! That one's hard too). Unfortunately, we haven't been able to participate in the playgroup at the park because of my studies. Hopefully we can get that going again. Todd has his credential and will be receiving his Master's in June! We had a little scare with pink slips and all, but he seems to be safe. That was quite an experience. Too make a long story short, it came down to his name being pulled from a hat (50/50 chance)! He still loves teaching and can't wait for a break from school (attending and working). He's counting down for summer! He is also looking forward to next year when he won't have Master's classes to worry about. I was provisionally accepted to UCR! All I have to do is pass my classes with a 'C' or better and I'm in! However, this semester has been killer. I was taking 5 classes and had to drop one. Even with the remaining 4, I find myself very worried about my grades. It's a long story but the very short version is that my Stats teacher is a horrible teacher (he is so smart but can't teach) and I now have a long-term sub in Eng because my instructor is in ICU at the hospital with a resperator. I hope he's o.k. I'm still frustrated though because there is no record of any of the work we did for the first half of the semester. Our final grades can only reflect the work we do from now on. Anyway, enough of that. I still go on FB and love it. It's so fun to find people. I'm still finding mission friends! I've lost 10 lbs since January, but have recently gained a few. That's about all I can post for tonight. I'm tired and ready for bed!

Christopher Graduated To A Bed Finally!

2009-05-04T22:16:00.001-07:00

Well, I have been so busy with school that I have been putting off helping Christopher graduate from the crib, and partly because he has never climbed out of it. He is almost 2 1/2. Anyway, Spring Break seemed like the perfect time to start! Overall, he's done great since. It's been fun watching him come from his room in the morning all by himself, holding his Mickey Mouse. I would say that half of the time, he has come into our bedroom in the early hours of the day. Since he sleeps like I did (all over the place, just ask my sister, Diana!) I usually end up putting him back into his bed. There have been a few mornings where he was on the floor, but I think that's pretty good considering how restless he is! I have been so grateful for my husband, Todd, who has helped get Christopher when he screams in the middle of the night. There have been a few. One specific night, Todd heard him screaming and went into his room but couldn't find him. He wasn't in his bed. Christopher was under the bed but in the far corner! You might wonder why I don't hear him screaming. It's because in order for me to sleep, I have to wear ear plugs. We live on a very busy street near campus and it's so noisy. We have been sleep deprived for going on 4 years now! Sometimes I do hear him, but most of the time Todd gets him. I can't wait to move out of this place. It's not going to happen anytime soon, unless we find a house (which we are currently approved and looking for!)

Disneyland for GG's 79th Birthday!!!!

2009-05-04T22:01:00.001-07:00

During my Spring Break, I found out that Grandma Crismon (GG) wanted to go to Disneyland for her birthday, which was the friday of my break. I really wanted to go and was able to take Christopher. We had so much fun, even though he wasn't feeling 100%. Since I don't have a pass, I wanted to be there the whole day (as long as Christopher was o.k.). We got there shortly after it opened and met my dad. He got a motorized wheelchair for GG (they run out fast) and then we hopped onto the train at Main Street. Not too much later, we met Juliana and her girls, Emma and Elizabeth, and then met David, Cathi, Kennedy, Crissy, and GG for lunch. I love the atmosphere of Disneyland and DCA and would be content just sitting on a bench somewhere listening to the background music observing the people and flowers. It's a beautiful place. Maybe I'll be able to get a pass again soon. It's so stinking expensive!

Emma, helping GG eat her birthday cake!

Emma feeding GG her birthday cake!

Emma and Christopher waiting very patiently for the Teacups!

...and trying to see if the White Rabbit was home.

This was some bird that was just sitting on a rock in the pond between Main Street and Frontierland. Does anyone know what kind it is? I was thinking it might be some kind of crane?

"Magical" Train Ride!

2009-05-04T21:42:00.000-07:00

What was extra "magical" about our train ride was that we were invited (lucky!) to sit in the very last car, which was enclosed and usually reserved for celebrities and Club 33 members. What a neat experience! I guess the only other way you can ride it is if a conductor asks you. It was beautiful and very comfortable. The train car was decorated by Walt's wife. During our whole tour of Disneyland, we got to listen to our personal conductor and not the recording that the other passengers listen to. It was amazing. Here are some of the pictures I took.

Easter Egg Hunt's

2009-05-02T00:24:00.000-07:00

The top two were taken at the Dean's house (Good friends of ours)

These last two were taken on Easter at my parents house.

Dinner at John's Incredible Pizza Co

2009-05-02T00:17:00.000-07:00

Chris loved playing virtual bowling with daddy!

He would run away after rolling the ball because it scared him as it shot back out!

Chris' "fishy face"

Amy's Farm in Ontario, CA

2009-05-02T00:12:00.001-07:00

Chris got to feed a baby calf

He loves animals and petting zoos!

2009-05-02T00:01:00.000-07:00

So, Christopher's hair got really out of control!

Here he is playing the piano before church! I love that he's using his fingers and not pounding the keys!

Chris Loves Playing in Grandpa's Car

2009-05-01T23:55:00.000-07:00

St. Patrick's Day

2009-05-01T23:46:00.001-07:00

Visiting Great Grandma & Great Grandpa Urry

2009-02-16T00:29:00.000-08:00

On Thursday, February 12, my sisters, Diana and Juliana, and I took our kids to see their great grandparents Urry and Crismon. Mom was able to go with us to the Urry's. We had such a fun time with them. Thank you G&G Urry for letting us spend time with you. I only wish we had taken a picture of you with the kids. Next time!

GG&GG guarding their entertainment center from the kids. Notice the pictures are missing from the bottom shelves! Good thinking GG&GG! Every once and a while Derek would climb on the nightstand that Grandpa Urry is sitting so pretty on!

Christopher playing with the mommy kitty cat. I remember this from when I was younger!

So, after a while the boys started getting a little cabin fever. Diana, Grandma Urry and I took them out back to play and they loved it so much that when it was time to go they both were very sad. What kids wouldn't love to play and run with rocks!

Visiting GG

2009-02-16T00:21:00.000-08:00

Emma, Christopher, Derek, and Elizabeth were able to go see their Great Grandma Crismon (GG) We had such a fun time with her. Grandma looked great and seemed very happy to finally be able to see her great grandkids from her son and my father. We love you GG!

S.D. Wild Animal park!

2009-01-20T19:13:00.000-08:00

On Saturday Chris and I were able to go to the Wild Animal Park with my in-laws (Thanks again Kelly and Kristie for a wonderful time!) and also meet my sister, Diana and her family (it was so good to see your family) while Todd stayed home and got a lot of studying and work done. Unfortunately my pictures didn't turn out very good and the video I took had horrible sound quality but here are a few of the good pictures.

Christopher chose to ride the giraffe

He loves petting zoos and saying hi to all of the animals and gives each of them a nice pat.

There was a play area which he enjoyed very much.

Karina is now the sole author of this blog

2009-01-19T21:24:00.001-08:00

Well I have been given the wonderful privilege of being the sole author for this blog. Todd used to post some things, but has turned it completely over to me. Lucky me. I do love blogs. It is so fun to visit my family and friends' blogs. I have to admit though that I have been slacking in making comments but promise to be better. I know it takes time to post and when people comment you know they have seen it and your time creating the post wasn't a complete waste of what little time you have.

Anyway, to change the subject a little and give an update on the Johnsen family: Christopher turned 2 December 20. He is such a wonderful boy. Terrible-Twos are definitely here, but he is still such a joy to have in mine and Todd's life. He still has a problem with nursery on Sunday's. One of us (we are also in the same ward as my parents) has to stay in there with him, otherwise the nursery leaders end up getting us not even 5 minutes after we drop him off. Any advice out there on how to deal with this or ideas on what might work? He also has a problem with hitting when he gets mad or doesn't get his way, but I think that part of this is because he isn't able to really communicate yet. He still uses his own language, which is cute, but nothing we can understand. Christopher is very active and loves the outdoors. For the past two Friday's Chris and I have been able to participate in the play group here at a park. We have great fun. For some strange reason, 4 days now he has been attached to his Mickey Mouse plush. This is the first thing he has ever been attached to. He wrestles with him, feeds him, carries him around, and sleeps with him. It's cute. On Saturday Chris and I went to the SD Wild Animal Park with Todd's parents Kelly and Kristie. He had so much fun. I'll post pictures sometime tomorrow ;)

Todd survived his Fall quarter at UCR while teaching at La Sierra High School as well. It was killer. Winter quarter seems to be much easier now that he is getting used to managing everything. It's always fun to go into his classroom on Saturday's sometimes and watch Christopher try sitting in every chair and play while Todd grades and works. Todd is doing great and will be receiving his CA credential in March and Master's in ED in June. He is such a big help to our family and I love him very much. 2008 was a particularly hard year for Todd and I but I am so happy it is behind us now. I know our experiences from 2008 will help he and I in the years to come.

I was able to quite my job December 19 (so happy about that!) and am now a student at Riverside Community College. I plan to be finished with the classes I need in order to transfer to UCR for fall. I am anxious to find out if UCR has accepted me, but don't find out until at least March and maybe not even until May. We'll see. I opened a Facebook account recently and have been able to find old missionary companions and friends which I hope to be able to keep in better contact with. It's been fun. I enjoy going to school and not having the stresses of my previous job weighing on my shoulders. I'm hoping to lose some weight now that I'm not sitting at a desk 9 hours a day but the holidays haven't helped! I have been trying to teach myself how to cook good meals again which is probably making a difference in our checkbook! It's been so much fun spending more time with Todd and Christopher.

I'll post pictures tomorrow!

More on Day with Thomas

2008-11-15T12:46:00.001-08:00

These are some more pictures from our trip to see Thomas. What a cool place the Railway museum is. I believe it's in Perris. We'll definitely see Thomas again next year.

Christopher loves to pull his Thomas bag!

Waiting patiently for Thomas. There was so much to see and so many different sounds of trains.

(Thank you Grandpa Crismon for such a fun day!)

Chris spent the day with Thomas!

2008-11-15T12:36:00.001-08:00

On Veteran's day Christopher got to see Thomas the Tank Engine with his cousin Derek, Grandpa Crismon, Aunt Diana, Uncle George, and his mom. We had a fun time.

Christopher's favorite view while riding Thomas!

There were so many buttons to push.

There was an Imagination Tent that had a bunch of hands on toys which the kids enjoyed.

It's about time for an update!

2008-08-13T12:50:00.000-07:00

Sorry it has taken so long to post anything. What can I say? Todd, Christopher and I have just been tired and busy. I'm not going to play catch up this time, but I will let you know what we are up to now. I only have a few minutes left of lunch!

Christopher still has fun spending time with his grandparents who help watch him so that Todd and I can work and attend school. He finally has his two bottom molars coming in and is getting his two top ones. That brings his teeth to 11. He is so much fun and has such a cute personality. We love him a lot. He is now almost 20 months, 26 lbs, and about 33" tall. He doesn't say very many words we can understand, but has a language only he knows! He loved nursery the first two Sundays but will have nothing to do with it unless one of us (mom, dad, grandma) is with him. The people in nursery bring him to us almost immediately after he starts crying, so that makes it really hard. Overall, Chris is a very happy boy and we love him to pieces.

Todd is so excited to start teaching at La Sierra High School this year and has to report to the school Aug 21. The summer has been tough for him with classes, but we think the worst is almost over! He has been so busy and at the same time, has been such a big help to me and our family. I love him and appreciate all he does for us!

I am very happy to report that as of the end of this year (the exact date has not been set yet), I will no longer be working at UCR!!! This may come to a surprise to some of you. To make a very long story short, I am over tired and stressed and it has taken it's toll. As of Jan, Todd and I will be able to switch roles, and I will be the full-time student! I have about 7 more classes left to take at RCC so that I can transfer to UCR (this time a student, not staff!) in time, to be able for us to stay living in family housing for such cheap rent. Wish us luck.

We have decided to put our names back on "The List" for family housing to move houses. We are on a really busy street and it's just too noisy. Todd and I aren't getting much sleep. We also feel like we are treated different on the street we are on, which is the furthest away from campus. Another long story. Anyway, I can't remember if Todd said we were # 199 or 299 on the list. That stinks. Hopefully the list will go by fast!

Well, I need to get back to work. Hope you are doing well. Hopefully pictures soon!

Juliana had her baby!

2008-05-22T16:05:00.001-07:00

Karina's sister, Juliana gave birth via cesarean today! She and Henry named her Elizabeth! She was 8lb 3 or 5 oz. and 20" long. (Chris was 8 lbs 9 oz and 22 1/4" long). Just a quick announcement. We hope to see the family this weekend. Emma is a big sister now!

Our last Disneyland trip as a family! For a while at least.

2008-05-07T23:01:00.000-07:00

Feeding the ducks & Casey Jr.

Waiting for Peter Pan & Dumbo

Helping my daddy push the stroller

Jungle Cruise

San Diego Zoo

2008-05-07T22:53:00.000-07:00

Trip to Coronado Island

2008-05-07T22:24:00.000-07:00

A few months ago we took a weekend trip to Coronado, where we got to spend time with some of Todd's extended family. We had a great time! Chris did really well. Here are a few pictures.

Disneyland w/ cousins

2008-05-07T22:14:00.000-07:00

Emma

Dad, Chris, G-Crismon,Emma, Cousin Derek & Aunt Diana

Derek and Diana

Emma and mom, Juliana

We are attempting to catch up on posting!

2008-05-07T21:22:00.000-07:00

Chris loves to climb in boxes

and on top of things!

Cool dude.

We've Been Married 5 Years Now!

2008-04-17T11:05:00.001-07:00

Todd and I just celebrated our 5th wedding anniversary on April 12. We had a lot of fun. Kelly and Kristie watched Christopher for us while we celebrated. On Friday night, after I got off of work, we spent some time at Victoria Gardens http://www.victoriagardensie.com/ and then ate at The Melting Pot (http://www.meltingpot.com/). Our reservations were at 7:30pm and we left the restaurant after 10pm. It was worth the time and money we spent there. Fondues are fun and yummy. So then we stayed at our house (after dinner, we couldn't afford a hotel!), got to sleep in and then went to the Los Angeles Temple, where we were sealed April 12, 2003. It was the first time Todd and I were able to do sealings since we were sealed. Too long, I know. It was amazing. Then we got to sit in traffic on the way home. We had a great time though. I love you Todd!

Update on Us

2008-04-16T13:06:00.000-07:00

We apologize for not updating sooner. We have been so busy! Sorry, no pictures this post. Soon (we hope!) Well, since Christopher's 1st birthday, we have done so much. Todd finished his Bachelor's degree and is already in his Master's/Credetial program at UCR. This is his second week student teaching. He, unfortunately, had to quite his part-time job as a high school instructional aid, but will continue that for the last 2 weeks of school, when his student teaching is complete. The summer will be busy for him with classes and more classes. He is trying to find a job teaching as an intern, so hopefully he will find something soon. Schools aren't sure yet if they can hire new teachers. Some teachers will probably lose their jobs. We'll just have to wait and see what happens. Karina continues to work full-time at UCR. Her job keeps her pretty busy. She can't wait to stop working and finish school! All in good time. Christopher will be 16 months on Sunday. (2 more months and he goes to nursery!) He is so much fun! He climbs on everything, has the cutest expressions and makes us laugh everyday. He talks up a storm, eventhough you can figure out what he's saying and loves to wave hello to people. Christopher enjoys the time he spends with both sets of grandparents. We are so grateful for their help in taking care of him while we finish school. Chris has traveled a lot with his grandparents and has been able to spend time with great-grandparents, and cousins. He loves to share and play with others. We are just so blessed to have him in our lives. Stay tuned for pictures!

Christopher's 1 Year Birthday Party 12/22/07

2008-01-05T15:57:00.000-08:00

We had Christopher's first birthday party at Reid park which had a great toddler playground.

Playing on the slides and showing off the new hairdos

Chris loves the swings

Chris was so extremely uninterested in his cake so we'll get right to the presents which also didn't seem to invite a whole lot of interest either except for the case of these two for some reason.

This was probably Chris's favorite gift as he spent most of the rest of the time at the park walking around the park with it.

But the next day he did show quite a bit of interest in his new rocking horse

1 Year Old at Disneyland 12/20/07

2008-01-05T15:01:00.000-08:00

You have to focus or you don't get the right type of spin

Yummy, fresh tortillas from the Mission Tortilla Factory

He loves this ball

11 Months Old 11/20/07

2008-01-05T14:50:00.000-08:00

2008-01-05T14:45:00.000-08:00

bottoms up

2008-01-05T14:03:00.000-08:00

I guess mickey won

Trick-or-Treating in Artesia w/ cousin Emma

2007-11-03T08:01:00.000-07:00

Emma was a Guatemalan doll from "It's a Small World" and had a stereo in her stroller repeating the song over and over again. Great job Juliana! Christopher dressed up as Squirt from "Finding Nemo " He made the perfect turtle!

Chrisopher, cousin Emma, Aunt Juliana, Emma's aunt and uncle, Millie and JR saying,

HAPPY HALOWEEN!

Haloween w/ G&G Johnsen

2007-11-03T07:55:00.000-07:00

Christopher got to spend 10-30-07 at G&G Johnsen's Trunk-or-Treat party.

Halloween at the Dean's

2007-11-03T07:37:00.001-07:00

Christopher loves his uncle Tim!

2007-11-03T07:33:00.000-07:00

Julian, CA

2007-11-03T07:18:00.001-07:00

Ooo, trail mix bowl

I want some!

This was a bottle-cap catcher that aunt Diana put Christopher inside.

These pies were awesome. We got a Strawberry-Rhubarb, and Caramel Dutch Apple

Chris completely out after a long day!

Thank you to Matt & Diana for a great weekend!

10 Months Old - 10/20/07

2007-11-03T07:13:00.000-07:00

Visiting David & Cathi

2007-10-30T22:01:00.000-07:00

We know it's a pink buggy, but he had so much fun walking around the living room and using one hand to push it!
He was so proud of himself. Even when he would fall and the buggy hit him in the forehead, he would get back up and try again.

There are only pictures of Chris from our visit with David & Cathi, but Cathi had the house decorated so good for halloween. Great job on the decorations David & Cathi!

Chris playing after Derek's blessing

2007-10-30T21:38:00.000-07:00

After Derek's blessing we went to Mark & Kim's house in Escondido and visited with family.

"Yeah, right? This is my chair!"

Christopher playing with Great-Grandpa Urry!

(Remember this toy from your Dentist's/Doctor's Office?)

Love his facial expression?

Cousin Derek's Blessing 10-14-07

2007-10-29T21:53:00.000-07:00

Misc Pictures

2007-10-12T23:48:00.001-07:00

Playing a duet w/Emma at G&G Crismon's

Peek-a-boo!

Christopher watching his favorite part of General Conference!

Just Cruzin Around

2007-10-12T23:40:00.000-07:00

9 Months Old! 9/20/2007

2007-10-12T23:37:00.000-07:00

2007-10-12T23:32:00.000-07:00

9/19/2007

2007-10-12T23:27:00.000-07:00

LA County Fair

2007-10-12T23:23:00.000-07:00

It was Todd and Christopher's first time going to the fair. We had a blast. Christopher loved the animals. He really wanted to go inside and play with them but Todd didn't want to get dirty! It would have made great pictures, but maybe next year. Christopher got a kick out of the goats licking his hand. I had to pull him away a few times for fear that the goat would eat his hand.

2007-10-12T23:17:00.000-07:00

Just checking out the different settings on our camera. Isn't he just adorable?

2007-10-12T23:12:00.000-07:00

Do you like my morning face?

My new thing is pulling myself up in my crib and bouncing up and down!