Goddard Goodness

Things That Spoke of Tanner...

2012-02-15T18:40:00.000-08:00

In this whole process, more than anything my family wanted to "preserve" Tanner, and to represent him in a way that he would like. We didn't want to shy away from his struggles or negate the fight that he was in. So even though I don't have the emotional strength to go into the viewing and the funeral and everything else at the moment, I do want to write about some of my very favorite details that, to me, felt very "Tanner."

-At the viewing and funeral, my whole family, and all of Tanner's closest friends wore Converse All Star shoes. They were Tanner's favorites. Even though they were 4 sizes too big, my dad wore a pair that had belonged to Tan.

-We all wore a calculator watch to pay homage to his favorite timekeeper

-Before we closed the casket, my mom loosened Tanner's tie

-At the graveside, we released hundreds of balloons to celebrate Tanner's birthday

-All the pallbearers wore one of Tanner's hats backwards while they carried the casket

-Under Tanner's clothes, we put him in his favorite Duke shirt, and made sure he had comfy socks

-Our sweet funeral director gave each of us a soft, plush teddy bear to help us remember Tanner's "bear" hugs

-Tanner's St. Francis Medallion never left him

-During the musical number, Camee read the Serenity Prayer and the Prayer of St. Francis

-In his casket, people put some amazing things...a stick of deodorant, treats/candy, a signed hat, special baseballs, letters...

-During the funeral service, we spent as much time laughing as we did crying

It just felt good to be able to honor Tanner in a way that was true to him.

It Hurts to Love Someone So Much...

2012-02-11T19:31:00.001-08:00

Tanner Rick Adams

"To the moon "

02/14/1989 - 02/09/2012

› Service Date: 02/14/2012
› Send Flowers

Tanner Rick Adams, our son, brother, uncle, teammate and friend passed away February 9, 2012. With loving adoration, we cherish all of our happy memories with him. It was only fitting that the boy who was born on Valentines’s Day, grew up to be a kid with a humongous heart. Tanner’s incredible capacity to love was extended not only to family and friends, but also to children, strangers in need, and animals. Tanner was a competitive athlete, who never met a sport he didn’t like. He was tall, strong, and an intimidating force. Tanner was intelligent, hilarious, witty, insightful, and gave the BEST bear hugs. He loved reading, music, movies, comfy slippers, Duke Basketball, South Carolina golf trips with his dad, A-1 Steak Sauce, and spending time with his family and friends. He loved Natalie, who found a place in his heart that hadn’t been touched before. He cherished his four nieces and his nephew, spending countless hours wrestling, teasing, having tea parties, and pillow fights. He filled our home and our lives with laughter, adventure, and a little bit of mischief! Tanner loved, and was loved by, two amazing sisters who throughout his life he leaned on for strength, comfort, joy, and guidance. His parents treasure every minute of everyday of his journey. We find comfort in knowing we will feel his strong arms wrapped around us again. To the moon!

Tanner was born February 14, 1989 in Portland Oregon. He graduated in 2007 from Skyline High School, attended Dixie State, Central Wyoming College, and Univ. of Colo. at Colorado Springs.

Tanner is survived by his parents Rick and Cindy Adams; sisters Monique (Jeff) Goddard, Camee Lynn (Matt) Lichtie; Grandmother Verlyn S. Adams, 1 nephew, 4 nieces and a loving family of aunts, uncles and cousins.

Viewing will be held Monday evening from 6:00-9:00 p.m. at Larkin Sunset Gardens, 1950 East 10600 South. Funeral Services will be held at 12:00 noon., Tuesday, February 14, in the Sandy Utah Granite South Stake Building, 2130 East 10000 South, Sandy, Utah with a viewing from 11:00-11:45 a.m. Interment will be in the Granite cemetery. Online condolences may be made atwww.larkincares.com

In lieu of flowers, please give someone a Tanner-sized hug and be ever mindful of those who struggle.

BACK

Hair Dilema

2012-02-05T22:14:00.000-08:00

I want some input! I recently saw some pictures of Brighton from last Christmas. Both Jeff and I noticed how much shorter her hair was last year. It got me thinking...should I cut it again?

There are some positives to having longer hair...

-it's more versatile...I can braid it, curl it, do fun pony tails with it...

-in a pinch it's easier to do. Pony tail it is!

But there are also some negatives...

-Trying to comb through the snarls

-Trying to keep it tame and out of her face

Short hair is...

-cute and trendy

But also...

-needs to be "done" everyday

Keep in mind Brighton has fine hair, but A LOT of it! It's thick and VERY straight. We have to use heat to get those bangs to bend AT ALL. So help me out and vote...

Longer hair as it is now...

Last years shorter hair...

PLEASE MOM!

2012-01-28T20:34:00.001-08:00

I was trying to get some cleaning done, and Eden was relegated to the kitchen while I vacuumed and mopped! I just couldn't help but laugh every time I looked over and saw her little eyes peeping over the baby gate at me.

Hi Mom. I can see you.

Mom? What are you doing over there?

Mom? M-OM?

Hey! I am trying to talk to you, Mom.

LISTEN TO ME MOM!!!!

(Isn't this the funniest face you've ever seen?)

We were so happy when our cousins surprised us by coming up for a visit. We all piled on snow clothes to enjoy some outdoor fun!

Jeff was launching snow at the kids using the shovel

Jumping on the ice covered tramp!

I didn't think that snow looked very clean...

Cousins

Say It Aint So! 11 Months Old!

2012-01-22T17:58:00.001-08:00

In less than a month we will be celebrating Eden's 1 year mark!!!! NOOOOOOO!!!! Not my baby! I remember when we brought Logan home from the hospital, I was thinking, "Oh my heck. In a year, this kid is only going to be ONE?" It seemed like eternity before he would grow up. But now, as a seasoned mother, I realize how quickly babyhood goes. Already I'm seeing Eden move toward toddler. Makes my heart ache. I just want this happy girl to stay my snuggly baby!

Current Milestones:

Saying "Uh-oh", "Mamamamama", and occasionally, "Buh bye"

Crawling everywhere...including up the stairs, and up and over anything in her way

Longer and longer attention span...she likes to look at books and watch Signing Time

Clapping when she's happy

Dancing when she hears music

Likes:

The Bath

Mom

Logan talking to her

Anything she can find on the floor to put in her mouth

Jumping in her jumper

Snuggling her buddies in bed

Dislikes:

Having her diaper changed. It's a nightmare!

Having Brighton in her face

Getting her nose wiped

The hardest things about Eden?

HER HAIR!!! I have no idea what to do with it. It's extremely straight and has some crazy cowlicks! She also does not like me to try to curl it or put it in a ponytail. So for now...it's a comb over with a bow.

Eden continues to be happy and sweet and extremely huggable. We all just wanna squeeze her! And seriously...the teeth? I can't get enough of that smile!

She always makes this funny face.

She likes the nose-scrunch

So big!

Uh-Oh Montage

Back From Bliss

2012-01-17T17:39:00.001-08:00

Jeff and I celebrated our 10th anniversary in style! That's right, we went to paradise! We took our first cruise and headed over the Caribbean! (Don't worry, we were not in Italy on the ship that sank. We made it to and from our destination with our ship in one piece!)

Thanks to the Grandmas working in a tag-team effort, we went on our first kid-less vacation in years. The trip was not without it's ups and downs, but Jeff and I enjoyed every second we had together. I will always remember this trip as one that was full of laughter. Even having THREE layovers on our way to Miami couldn't dampen our spirits. (If you're looking for information about any airports, we visited 5 different ones just on this trip!)

From The Runway (aka Rundown) Inn, to the stereotypes of Jamaica, this trip was full of memories that I will cherish, and giggle over, forever!

Miami

Ahhh, there she is. The Norwegian Pearl.

This might have been the topless deck...it was the only time I let Jeff visit.

Here is our one and only $6.00 drink. It was yummy!

Our fancy dinner at the Summer Palace

We were part of a "freestyle" cruise, which means you could eat from a buffet anytime you wanted. But you could also choose to eat at one of the ships "restaurants". We did a combination of both. And yes, the food was in abundance. I think my favs were the veggie pizza and the made to order crepes! (Jeff and I stayed active though, and committed to never taking the elevator...so I came home only gaining 1 lb. Phew.)

The Bahamas:

Our first stop was the Bahamas. Norwegian Cruise Lines owns there own private island in the Bahamas. (The Great Stirrup Cay). Instead of hitting up Nassau, we went and chilled on our own private island. AMAZING water! It was so beautiful. We just spent a low key day hitting around the volleyball, swimming, playing ping pong, and of course, eating!

Look at this awesome beach wheelchair!

A lot of our laughs came from watching the people around us...

notice the guy behind Jeff. That blue Speedo definitely added

to the view.

A slanted ping pong table made for an interesting match!

Jeff under water

Sorry...but it was our anniversary!

And the lady behind Jeff in this one looked just like my grandma!

In a bikini!

(I think there should be an age limit on bikinis. After 40...one piece swimsuits

should be mandated!)

Sunset

A Day At Sea:

The next day we spent the whole day on the ship while we were en route to Jamaica. One of the reasons Jeff choose this ship was because it had so many sporty activities. He played pickup games of soccer several times. We also shot baskets and played volleyball on this sports court. The climbing wall isn't pictured...but it was there too!

And what cruise would be complete without a mini-range

Shuffleboard

A picture of all the drunk cruisers

Now before I continue, I'd better mention some of the good fortune we encountered before we boarded the ship. As we were sitting and waiting to head on to the Pearl, I heard the girl across from us on her phone telling her mom that "church time had changed to 9." Hmmm...I thought. I did the perfunctory garment scan, and, indeed, she was a Mormon. I struck up a conversation with this cute girl and her husband, and a friendship was born.

McKenzie and Cory turned out to be great cruising companions. We went excursioning on the islands together, and had a great time, but we didn't have to be together every second! It was the perfect situation. You're going to see them in a bunch of pictures...

Jamaica:

Jamaica was one of the islands I was most excited to see! I mean, come on! It's what I always envisioned when I pictured Caribbean. But, sadly, it was one of the most disappointing stops on our trip. Poor Jamaica is like the Tijuana of the Caribbean. Dirty and unkempt. Bums everywhere. Everyone trying to scam some money from you. Jeff must of looked like he was ready for a good time, because he got offered pot on every street corner.

Instead of booking an excursion with the ship, we decided to see if we could do things cheaper by going to the locals. A mistake? Maybe. But Wayne, our taxi driver, gave us a lovely tour of the island, and then got us to Dunns River Falls.

After hiking the falls, we went back into town, fended off the locals at every corner and ate some genuine Jamaican Jerk chicken. We were tired and jaded after a day of the Jamaicans bargaining with us. We just spent the rest of the day at the beach.

The Jamaican water was some of the warmest!

Dunns River Falls was Jeff's favorite!

Look at all these tourists! Fortunately, we got to the Falls before most people.

The Goddards and the Allens

We found the church! A little room in an office building!

McKenzie and Jeff in a handstand contest.

Grand Cayman Island:

Grand Cayman was my very favorite! After Jamaica, I was worried that every island was going to feel like the tourists vs. the locals. But Grand Cayman was clean and beautiful! The people were kind and funny.

We went to a sandbar and swam with the stingrays! It was so amazing! Clear warm water and those stingrays swimming all around us.

Afterward we went snorkeling on a coral reef! How peaceful was that? I could have snorkeled forever!

Those stingrays would swim by...grazing our legs...and it would freak me out!

But they were amazing to see and touch!

This is underwater! Can you believe how clear it is?

Snorkeling

Cozumel Mexico:

Originally we were going to go try to see the Mayan ruins of Tulum. But after considering how much additional travel time it would be, we decided to go the scooter route instead. We rented scooters and drove all over the island of Cozumel. The funniest part of the trip was Jeff and I had a totally gutless scooter. The scooter took forever to get going, if we had to slow down at all it would totally die. We ended up taking it back to the shop, where we sheepishly realized the choke had been out.

It rained on and off all day, but it just made the journey more adventurous. You should have seen Jeff driving up on the sidewalks, dodging tourists, and getting scowled at by natives. Our new friend Cory spoke Spanish, and that made the whole day just a little bit easier.

We did end up visiting some of the nearby Mayan ruins. They were smaller than Tulum, but I think that ended up being just fine.

Scootering

Total tourists

Our last day at sea was SO windy! It was the only day I really got seasick! The waves were cresting and swelling and the boat was rolling. I was thankful that the crew members tipped me off and told me to eat green apples. That seemed to settle my stomach!
Saying Farewell:

Our last day on the Pearl was bittersweet. We had had so much fun. But I was ready to see my kids. I missed Eden's funny teeth, and Brighton's brown eyes, and Logan's endless chatter. It was an amazing trip. One that I will treasure forever.

Top Ten Cruise Memories:

10. Watching Jeff get offered marijuana. "Hey mon. You want a Bob Marley CD? No? I got pot?"

9. People-watching in the Bahamas. So many Speedos!

8. Laughing hysterically with the Allen's about Jeff's crazy scooter driving.

7. "Washy washy! Happy Happy! Smiley Smiley!" This is what the greeter to the buffet said to us everyday!

6. Christopher our room steward was the nicest guy EVER!!! We loved the towel animals he left for us. And he was always calling Jeff "Sir Jeffrey".

5. Zipping past some couple on our scooter...but then stopping for a speed bump and they went cruising past us while we puttered along!

4. Wayne, our Jamaican taxi driver told us he could leave our dead bodies on the side of the road.

3. Bartering with a man in Mexico, and he told me he would throw in a "Gucci" bag. The Gucci bag was a plastic shopping bag.

2. Laughing hysterically during a comedy show. One of the ladies acted like a blow up doll...hilarious!

1. Sunshine! Water! And 10 years with my best friend!

The Quote that Says it All...

2012-01-02T17:39:00.000-08:00

I overheard this conversation today and I thought it pretty much sums up the difference between my two oldest...

L: When I grow up I want to be an astronaut. Or maybe a policeman. I'm not sure. Either an astronaut or a policeman.

B: When I grow up I want to be a princess or a reindeer.

Chalked Full of Fun and Festivites

2011-12-29T13:06:00.000-08:00

I must warn you, this is probably my longest post EVER!!! But with all the fun of Christmas, I didn't want to get behind on my blogging. (Because isn't that the worst...)

December 23rd:

Do you remember Christmas Eve-Eve? It was like torture as a kid. So my friend and I decided to keep the kiddos moving by taking them to Treehouse Museum. I was predicting crowds and crazy...but there was hardly anyone there!

Brighty being a cowgirl.

(If we had horses, I could totally picture her being a rodeo princess.)

Doesn't she look grow up?

Partici-Play: At the Treehouse we went to their Partici-play where the kids volunteer to be a part of a little reader's theatre narrated by one of the workers. Imagine my surprise when Brighton's little hand shot right up to volunteer to be on of the actors. She is fearless! It was really cute.

Here is our friend Quincy being a baker.

There she goes getting in costume

December 24th:

Christmas Eve is my very favorite day of the season. The tension is delicious. We spent our Christmas Eve morning partying with my family. Then we visited Jeff's family, headed back up to our house, sprinkled our Reindeer dust, left out cookies for Santa, exchanged gifts from each other, and watched our family movie showing the year in review. Our kids were out like a light...no waiting up for Santa here.

Each of my kids had their own tree this year.

This is Eden's tree.

Can you guess?

Brighy's tree!

She choose these ballet slippers as her ornament this year.

I found her little nativity like this. I thought it was sweet that everyone was looking at baby Jesus.

Logan's tree.

Even though we don't necessarily "bleed Blue", Logan still liked this BYU hat.

Some shots from the Adam's Family Christmas Eve Extravaganza

Hi Christmas Cutie!

We paired up and played a fun game called Headbandz!

Of course there was wrestling...

And pictures by the fire place with our new PJ's on!

Sierra and Logan

(Logan was OVER THE MOON to get some "Feetie" PJ's)

The Cousins

Jay and Ede

The Lichties

Sisters

All the Girls

Most of the boys

The Goddards

Then we played one of my favorite games...Left and Right.

Funny girl!

We exchanged gifts from each other...

Brighton got this baby puppy that drinks a bottle.

LOVED IT!

Getting ready for Santa at our house...

Sprinkling Reindeer dust

CHRISTMAS DAY!

Santa played a little trick on the kids this year. Instead of placing the gifts under our tree, Santa set things up downstairs. When Logan looked at the tree in the morning, he was a little concerned not to see anything new, but when he turned the corner and looked down the stairs...total elation!

Brighton was close to tears to see Kitty Lou. This summer Brighton lost her very favorite stuffed animal when she left it at the park. How wonderful of Santa to replace Kitty Lou. New Kitty Lou even had a sparkly collar.

Santa left these cardboard playhouses, which have seen tons of activity the last few days. Logan opened up some new Legos, got a Pillow Pet, both kids got little remote control robots, Logan got a Marble Roller Coaster, Brighton opened up some Squinkies, and Eden opened up a new fun toy with lots of rolling balls.

This year the Christmas morning "schedule" was ideal. We woke up around 7:30am, looked out our gifts from Santa and our stockings, got ready and headed to church, came home, ate breakfast, and then finished up unwrapping presents. I love how church brought the meaning of the day to the forefront of our morning, and it also helped space things out.

Even Bingo got a present...courtesy of my mom.

Stockings...

Yes!!! A new soccer ball that also came with goalie gloves.

There's Kitty Lou!

Eden loves it!

A Lego organizer!

Christmas yoga!

More Little Critters

Jeff got new running shoes!

Grandma and Grandpa came up for lunch and to see what everyone got!

Eden likes the castle too!

December 26th:

We spent the 26th celebrating with the Goddards. We took the Motorhome down to Lehi to visit Trafalga! It was a fun way to travel all together. Trafalga was CRAZY! But we got to play some mini golf and some laser tag, so it was worth it! (Even Brighton played laser tag! So fun!)

Grady and Tay

Rachelle spanked Grady in rock climbing!

Jeff and Richard

We had pizza and exchanged gifts.

The babies playing together

Jordan with his new goalie gloves!

Richard Cunningham

Logan and Jamie

Bright and Jamie

December 27th:

No pictures to document this important day, but Jeff and I celebrated our 10th anniversary!!! It was low key, just dinner and a movie, but we are headed to the Bahamas in the near future!

December 28th:

Getting together with our good friends, the Brionez Family, to celebrate and exchange gifts!

What an amazing holiday. Nonstop fun. The ages of my kids make Christmas exciting again! I want to treasure these next few years!

I love to stand!

2011-12-23T07:10:00.000-08:00

Christmas Preview

2011-12-23T07:00:00.000-08:00

Grandpa and Grandma came up and we had ourselves a very festive night. We started with some bowling, had some dinner, and then, we got to open some early Christmas gifts! My kids were thrilled. We are going to start calling Richard and Kathy, "Grandpa and Grandma Generosity"! They totally spoiled us. I think Santa should take the rest of the kids' gifts back.

Ha! I told her that she had to smile really big before she could open a present.

This is the result.

I can't believe it's Eden's first Christmas!

10 Months Old, Baby Brendon, and other stuff!

2011-12-18T16:43:00.000-08:00

Look at my baby! All grown up at 10 months old! If wasn't convinced about Eden's sweet nature before, last night confirmed to me that this girl is gem. Ede hadn't been feeling well for a while, runny nose and gunk, but yesterday I could tell that she was feeling worse. As a family we went to a movie, and the whole show Eden just sat on my lap and snuggled against me. She felt warm and her eyes were all glassy so we ended up taking her to the doctor, and we were horrified to find out she had a fever of 104.5! HOLY COW!!! I felt like parent of the year. Doctor confirmed that she had massive infection in both ears, and prescribed antibiotic. Without the fever, I may never have known she even had ear infections. She wasn't grouchy or pulling on her ears. (Compared to her sister who let us know with ample amounts of screaming and hysterics the moment her ears started hurting!)

Currently my favorite thing about Eden is her two front teeth. I love the gap! She continues to crawl everywhere, pulls herself up to stand using anything and everything, is starting to let go and try standing on her own. She is an observer and loves to watch all the stuff going on around her. We are so lucky to this little lady in our lives!

Love those front teeth!

Conveniently placed bar from the crib...

More with the teeth

Her first little pony tail. (She didn't like me playing with her hair very much!)

Gentry found her asleep like this the other day.

Baby Brendon:

In other news, my sister-in-law Kristi went into labor last week. As exciting as this sounds, it was actually scary because she was only 31 and 1/2 weeks along. Despite all the doctors efforts, Kristi delivered Baby Brendon on December 10th. He weighed 4 lbs. and was like 17 inches long. The lungs are always the biggest concern when a baby is born so early, but Brendon is surprising everyone by doing so well. He'll probably be in the NICU for at least 4 weeks, but we are just all so grateful that he's here and he's healthy!

Brendon Richard Fetzer

Logan drew this and I thought it was so cute...
Logan and Jeff went to the Grizzly hockey game this week. A father and son date. Logan came home with his eyes bright and shiny and a huge grin on his face. When I asked him how it was, he said "I enjoyed it very much."

I thought this was funny...Brighty got this new dog chair. Instead of sitting on it, she has made it the mother of all dogs...and she wanted me to take a picture of her dog family.

Bingo joined the family for this one.

Loganisms:

L: I am having a brain sensation!

--------------

L: Shall I get ready for bed, Mom?

Brighty-Pie's-Words-in-the-Sky

B: Oh mom! Look at Eden! She looks cuter than Christmas!

---------------

B: Look at all the trees! The trees are blonde!

M: Blonde?

B: What it means when there is no hair on your head?

M: Bald!

B: Oh! Look at the trees. The trees look baldish.

--------------

We went to see Puss In Boots, and Brighton loved the character named Kitty Soft Paws, but she could not remember her name!

B: Look mom! This is my new animal named Kitty Hollow Glasses.

--------------

M: Brighty, where is your paper?

B: (She look around...) It's behunder me, mom.

--------------

M: How many times did I ask you to clean your room?

B: (Thinks about it...) T'wonce.

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So Much Fun Stuff To Do!!!

2011-12-12T11:56:00.000-08:00

It was time for our favorite Christmas party of the year. The company my dad works for always rents out Classic Skating. We all go and have a blast jumping, skating, eating, and laughing. Santa makes an appearance, (Brighton figured out that Santa was actually Grandpa Fluffy!), and we all go sit on his lap then score a super generous gift! I love this party because my kids don't have to be quiet, or sit still, or wait in line! We just play and play!

Jaycee sits on Grandpa's/Santa's lap

Sierra

Santa Fluffy has his hands full!

The whole fam...almost!

We also went and watched Jaycee preform with her singing and dancing group! So cute!
And last night, we went to see the "Christmas Village" up in Ogden. In my opinion, this is WAY better then the whole Temple Square thing. Much less traffic. Far fewer crowds! And there is stuff for the kids to actually look at...not just lights! Another tradition we may be implementing in our family.

They were making snow angles...sans snow!

Brighton's new favorite imagination game is to play "Baby Jesus." She finds something to put on her head so she can be Mary. Her stuffed animal Wink is the current baby Jesus. I think it's so cute!

Ode to My Mom...

2011-12-09T20:38:00.000-08:00

My mom had her birthday yesterday and I think she deserves a little blog shout-out! I love that the relationship with my mom is always exactly what I need it to be. She is one of my very best friends. She is my confidante. She and I laugh constantly. I never knew how much I would cherish the relationship we share.

Things I love about my mom:

-She is silly! I love when she cuts loose and we eat junk food and laugh until our stomach hurts!

-She's wise. She always gives me great advice...even when it's not exactly what I want to hear.

-She doesn't take herself to seriously.

-She is so compassionate! She would seriously give you her shoes and never complain once if her feet hurt.

-She's generous! She give and gives and gives.

-She's rock solid!

-She loves people. Everyone likes my mom because she makes an effort to get to know them.

-She's thoughtful.

-She is an amazing example.

-She's supportive and encouraging.

-She doesn't judge and she's accepting.

I hope that, one day,I can be the kind of mom to my kids that my mom is to me!

Yep...silly

My kids LOVE her!

This picture always makes me laugh! It was so windy! So in the next picture she

tried tying her hair under her chin. It didn't work any better.

I Love This Game!

2011-12-05T13:17:00.000-08:00

How big are you, Eden?

Bring on the Holidays!

2011-12-03T20:31:00.000-08:00

Let the festivities begin! To kick off our holiday season, we went on a hayride to see the lights in Layton City! Hosted by The Burger Stop, we got to see Santa, eat candy canes, and enjoy our time together. I think this is an activity that may turn into a tradition!

I was proud of Brighton, she saw Santa, walked right over to him, climbed on his lap and talked to him. (Remember, we have had Santa-phobia in the past!) She let Santa know that all she wants for Christmas is her lost Kitty-Lou. (Her favorite stuffed animal that disappeared this summer.)

Next, a nervous Logan tentatively climbed on Santa's lap. He let Old St. Nick know that he wanted some Ninjago Legos. My favorite thing of the night was when Santa was wondering among the guests...he spotted Logan and said "I think you need to keep your room a little bit cleaner." Logan gave him the most earnest, vigorous, affirming head nod I have ever seen.

Eden was not quite sure what to think of this big man in red!

The Hay Ride

Look at Eden...doesn't she remind of you Ralphie from Christmas Story?

So bundled she can't move!

The Tunnel of Lights.

We tried to hold our breath all the way through.

And our Ward took a different approach to it's Christmas party this year. We all dressed in "period-style" clothing. We sang hymns around fires outside. Then got golden beans to buy our food. It was fun and a nice reminder of what we are really celebrating this season!

Renovations

2011-11-28T15:07:00.000-08:00

Can you hear that? Oh yes, that is the wind of change...and it is blowing from the Goddard home. I finally convinced Jeff that we had to replace our old, nasty, stained, matted carpet and replace it with something indestructible and easy to clean. So in October we started ripping our house apart in preparation for some new laminate flooring. ( I know...some of you are shuddering at the thought of laminate, but I could not take my chances with real wood! We would have destroyed it in record time!)

Not only did we get new floor, but we figured it was time for our whole house to get a little face lift. (We have been here over 7 years!) That included new paint, staining and painting the cabinets, and patching and filling a lot of little dings in the walls.

I had no idea that it was going to be such a long, drawn-out, nightmare! Just deciding on the color to paint the wall took six different samples of green before we found one we both liked.

Jeff and I spent weeks up until the wee hours of the night working on the house. He was sick of his wife nagging, and I was sick of my house looking like a war zone.

These were my favorite quotes from family and friends during our renovation:

"You know the root word of paint? Pain."

-Shah Brionez

"I've heard if your marriage can survive a renovation, it can survive anything."

-Mark Fetzer

We aren't finished yet, but at least things are to the point of manageable!

Old stairs

Kitchen mid-paint

Torn-up living room

Our cabinets were like this for several weeks.

Old living room

NEW LIVING ROOM...sans decorations

Jeff's biggest project...THE STAIRS! Don't they look great?

Even thought it's still blue, we repainted down in the family room too.

Everything feels better now!

Happenings

2011-11-21T19:32:00.000-08:00

Man, we have been busy!!!! I guess the Holiday season is in full swing! (Not to mention some nightmare home renovations that seem to be going on FOREVER! I will post about those when I feel optimistic that they might actually get done!)

Logan preformed in his first ever Christmas concert for the school. (I know, a Christmas program in November, but we just go with the flow...) It was fun to see my little guy up there. Actually, it was surreal. Logan...at my school...singing...on stage...in uniform...brought a little tear to my eye!

Carson and Logan

In the audience

Cute Grandma Kathy came up to watch too.

The lights were just so bright...

A taste of the action...

Are you ready for unbelievable news? That's right. Eden is now 9 months old! On November 18th she hit her next milestone. As of today, she's crawling all over the place, using those little pincher fingers to pick up her own food, FINALLY got her other top tooth, and is starting to make those sounds that are really close to actual words. She loves hanging out with her siblings, pulling dad's hair, and putting everything in her mouth. Strangers make her nervous, she hates to feel left out, and she hates to wear socks. (She pulls them off all the time!) Her hair is coming in nicely, she likes to look at short books, (especially the touch and feel kind), wears 12-18 month clothing and a size 3 shoe. Eden is super ticklish under her chin, loves to give big slobbery open-mouth kisses, and is using the stairs to try to stand up.

Name that eye color...I sure can't.

Jumping...

Watch her lips, she is always pulling her top one under the bottom lip. CUTE!

Adams Thanksgiving: It may be early, but to try to accommodate everyone's family schedules, we celebrated our day of feasting on Sunday. We broke from tradition and did dinner at Camee's house. Cam and I kinda took over and divvied up the food, leaving my mom in charge of just the turkey. It turned out wonderful, and I think my mom enjoyed the change of pace as well. (I would hate being the head chef all of the time!) My kids just loved that they got to play with their cousins for hours!

The kids decorated Gingerbread houses!

Jay and Bright

Eden did NOT like Grandpa's whiskers

This picture of Brighton cracks me up! What the smile?

Thankful for each other.

And in other random news...

HOW MANY TIMES CAN THIS HAPPEN TO ONE GIRL? (Remember this...)

Things My Kids Say

2011-11-12T19:23:00.000-08:00

It is once again time for me to share the funny things my kids have said over the past month!

Loganisms:

(Logan playing outside with some of the neighborhood boys. The other kids were scoping out his bike...)

Friend: Oh! Your bike says "Hot Wheels".

L: No, you can touch them. They're not hot.

Friends: No, it's HOT WHEELS.

L: The wheels aren't hot. It's fine.

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L: Eden smells like salsa chips in tomatoes.

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At the dinner table, Jeff kept playing with one of the kid's toys. Over and over and over...finally I said "JEFFREY!" Jeff smiled and put down the toy.

L: Dad, are you afraid of mom when she yells?

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L: I think Santa is nocturnal.

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L: Mom, when is it okay for me to kiss Mallory?

M: When you are home from your mission.

Brighty-Pie's-Words-In-The-Sky

I heard her singing the other night...wasn't quite sure what the tune was but I loved the lyrics!

B: I love Jesus. He is my best guy..."

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B: Look at me mom! Look at my sun glasses! I am a rocking star!

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We went to get in the car and it was snowing...

B: Mom! I don't want winter to get on me!

Another Hill-Billy

2011-11-07T18:35:00.001-08:00

I do NOT know what's up with my girls! But for some reason, their teeth come in slowly...very slowly...excruciatingly slow...and always one at a time. This means for a few weeks we get to giggle every time Eden smiles. Her hill-billy grin makes us all laugh! Already on Eden's Christmas list is "her one front tooth!"

Remember when Brighton looked the exact same?

Did I mention that Eden is crawling forward these days?

No more reverse for this lady!

The First Snow

2011-11-06T17:27:00.000-08:00

From this last week...

To waking up to this yesterday morning! I guess it is November...time for winter to roll in. Darn. I was enjoying our Indian Summer.

I LOVE LOVE LOVE this baby and her chubby cheeks!

Scanned Stuff

2011-11-03T16:39:00.000-07:00

How nice to have a wonderful friend that would scan these for me! Just in case you care....

Eden's x-ray from several weeks ago. I love the picture on the right. Can you see the diaper? And the chub? On the left, you can actually see the folds of skin!

(Don't ask me where the fracture is...I can't see it!)

And here are Logan's team pictures from soccer and basketball.

Happy Halloween

2011-10-31T20:28:00.000-07:00

Was it not the best ever trick-or-treating weather tonight? I mean seriously! Balmy and warm. Brighton and Logan lasted longer than they ever have. Eden wasn't that into it, but hey, if you had the croup, would you be?

Below are some of our fun Halloween events that helped us get excited for the actual holiday. (Jeff was in charge of taking pictures at the Goddard party, hence, it is not here. Sorry.)

Halloween Night:

Our trick-or-treating buddy, the friendly witch Mally

The Three Amigos

The Adams Halloween Party: This has become one of my very favorite family traditions. My cute mom goes all out with fun decorating and spooky games. We all look forward to our family party. The kids talk about it for weeks after.

The Addams Family (snap snap)

I have got to round up a picture of my dad...he was hilarious! With nose piercings and fake tattoos.

The Witch of they party...like her hump?

The Fairy Jeff-Mother

And this one just makes me laugh!

Games: We buddied up and tried to throw beanbags into the buckets tied on our partners head. Tanner and Sierra took the crown.

Natalie was a good sport. She was Brighty's partner.

TOSS CREEPY!

A staple at our Halloween party.

I confess, Natalie beat me in the girls round of Toss Creepy.

Go Logan!

Blind Musical Chairs

Sound dangerous, right?

What party is complete without a Princess-In-A-Box?

Sierra was a cute witch...Grandma's minion

FOOD:

My mom made some of the cutest Halloween food for us to enjoy.

Mummy Dogs

I loved these!

So funny!

And the traditional making of the Witches Brew.

Logan is adding "Crushed Bones"

Covering their eyes and chanting to help conjur the magic!

Aha! The spell was a success!

Enjoying some tasty brew

And just because they are cute....

Our Knight in Shining Armor

A Beautiful Princess

Showing us her fancy gloves

A Magic Pumpkin

8 Months!

2011-10-26T09:06:00.001-07:00

Little Eden just keeps growing! In the last month so many new things have started happening...

Teeth: 2 1/2...she has her bottom two teeth and the top left is just breaking through the gums.

Crawling: She's up on all fours, but has only figured out how to go in reverse. Daily she'll back herself into a corner and then cry because she can't get out!

Likes: Being outside! Playing with the big kids, taking a bath, Cheerios, Ritz crackers, water from her sippy cup, being held, Gentry and Mallory, being talked too, petting Bingo.

Dislikes: Being snuggled when she's not tired, being left alone, having her diaper changed, getting new teeth, being stuck in a corner, getting her nose wiped.

Her hair is coming in nicely, we think it's going to be brownish. We still have no idea what color her eyes are going to be...they are brown inside and blueish/greenish around the outside. Eden talks all the time. I love hearing that baby babble and all her squeals! She hasn't been sleeping great, because of the teeth, and then being sick, and having a broken leg. We are ready to be back on some sort of schedule. She sleeps with her Zebra buddy right next to her nose and mouth, which always makes me nervous, but when I try to move it, she pulls it right back!

She has hit the 20 lb mark! We were praying that Logan and Bright would hit 20 lbs by the time they were one! Eden is VERY tall and very well insulated! (Though I can see some of those rolls getting smaller the more she starts moving!)

We love this baby! Even when she's sick or teething, she still greets us with a smile! Even when her eyes are watery and snot is running down her face, she's still so eager to interact!

Can you see those little chompers?

Always in reverse

Determination and Bravery

2011-10-16T19:51:00.000-07:00

Tonight our Brighty-girl decided to try riding a bike without training wheels...and guess what? She did it! Out of nowhere! We couldn't be prouder or more surprised!

The Pumpkin Patch Field Trip

2011-10-16T14:14:00.000-07:00

Posting this right now seems a little trivial. There are so many HUGE things going on in people's lives all around us. Sickness, hardship, and pain. It breaks my heart to see all these hard things going on, and I feel so powerless. But like my mom keeps telling me, "You can only keep your side of the sidewalk swept, honey."

So here I am sweeping my sidewalk.

Brighton's preschool class went a trip to the pumpkin patch at Black Island Farms. It was on a Wednesday, which is Jeff's day to be home with the kids. So Jeff packed up the kids, joined the other moms at the farm, and watched our own children have a wonderful time. Way to go, Mr. Mom! (He even remembered to take some pictures.)

She's Still Smiling

2011-10-13T22:38:00.000-07:00

Look at our sweet girl. Even after rolling off the bed and fracturing her little leg, Eden is still smiling. In fact, Ede didn't even really cry. I decided to take her to the doctor because she just wouldn't put any pressure on her foot. An x-ray revealed two small fractures. Because she isn't walking yet, and because her rubbery baby bones heal quickly, the doctor fitted her with a splint and an ace bandage. Hopefully just a few weeks and she'll be back in fighting shape. Through it all, this beautiful baby has been happy as a clam. In fact, she seems to be more bothered by the teeth trying to come in than her broken leg.

And I wish you could see her in person...that tiny cast looks so cute on her chubby little leg. I'm going to round up a scanner and post her x-ray...it's adorable!

We love this baby!

Family Time

2011-10-09T15:33:00.000-07:00

In an effort to get in some more time as a family, Jeff has started working a new schedule at the bike store. He is now working 4 "tens", (which actually is more like 4 twelves with the commute), but that means he now has Monday and Wednesday at home. It's so nice that he's home on Monday, because that is also a day I'm home. We have totally been missing having a day off together. It is so hard to get anything done by yourself, with the three kids. But having us both home one day has allowed us to get in some valuable family time, and to address some projects around the house. Friday and Saturday turn into really long days without him getting home until 8pm, and I know he feels bad about missing all of Logan's soccer games, but hey, these are the things you do to survive.

Miss Eden at almost 8 months

We took the kids to hit a bucket of balls. It was actually really fun!

Even Brighton loved whacking the balls!

(She had her own unique style, of course!)

Grandpa Fluffy might die when he sees this...

not quite the way professionals do it

Our perpetual cheerleader. She's always a good sport.

I liked this father and son picture

Silly Brighty made her puppy look cool

Itty Bitty Baller

2011-10-06T19:08:00.000-07:00

Logan started basketball this week. He is in the "Itty Bitty Hoops" league through the city! He is on the same team as his pal Carson, and together they had such a great time at their first game. Not to brag, but Logan is a NATURAL!! He even made a couple of shots! (Total his team made three baskets...Logan scored two of them!) He understands defense, knows how to rebound, and does a pretty darn good dribbling. Watching these five-year-olds was such a riot. Nothing cuter. Logan reports that he thinks he likes basketball better than soccer. Grandpa Fluffy liked hearing that!

Logan and Carson

These are just some shots from practice

Treasure Found

2011-10-04T20:06:00.000-07:00

I was looking through my videos and I found this...it makes my heart ACHE! Look at those cheeks! Listen to that lisp! See that happy smile. I wanna turn back the hands of time and hold that little boy again! He was sunshine! (He still is, usually...just sassier sunshine who loves to tease his sister!)

The King Reigns

2011-10-02T16:17:00.000-07:00

Once again it was time for the annual Banbury Ward 5K. Even though it's only the second year our ward has been doing this, it has quickly become a neighborhood favorite. I know Jeff and Logan have been talking about it for weeks. (Mostly because Jeff wanted to defend his title from last year.) Logan too was determined to run faster than he did the previous year.

I was happy to volunteer my efforts with the coordinating, (I mean, come on! Anything to get out of running!), and this year Eden and I enjoyed cheering for all the runners. During the "Kids K" Logan ran by so quickly I didn't even get a good picture. And then as the runners were coming back, I was totally caught off guard to see Logan near the front of the pack. He and his buddy Mally ran the WHOLE way! Logan was so fast! (Just like his Mama...hee hee!)

I love to watch Jeff gear up for events like this. He is such a nice guy, and humble to boot, but I see that competitive streak come out. He WANTED that golden shoe again! This year he decided to push the girls in the stroller for the three miles. It was a family run! It was a close finish, with a sprint at the end! Jeff didn't realize that the guy behind him was gaining on him quickly, and we were all cheering 'em both on, but Jeff managed to squeak through with the win. That makes Jeff the reigning Banbury 5K king for another year.

All the ward kids

My cheerleader

Mally is in the green shorts and Logan is the blue shorts right next to her

Here they were going to the finish...can you see Logan out front?

Ahhh...refreshing popsicle after a hard run

Running buddies

Eden also enjoys a popsicle

Lots of guys in the ward wore this headband to support a neighbor

Brighton loved cruising all over the parking lot

Dad's helpers

There they go!

Afterward

Crit Race

2011-09-25T20:09:00.000-07:00

Poor Jeff FINALLY got to be part of a bike race. (Because of his new working hours and his mean wife he is been woefully bike deprived this summer!) I think this has been my favorite event that Jeff has ever participated in. It was called a Criterium race, and the racers just went around a block in Ogden like 30 times, as fast as they could for about 13 miles. It was awesome to spectate because once every minute we would see Jeff cruising by. The kids would get excited every time. In other races we would find a spot along the racing trail to camp out for like 400 hours, and then we would see Jeff cruise by once, and that would be it. Not to mention this race was a short one...only 30 minutes! YAY!!! And to top it all off, Ogden was having their Harvest Moon Festival at the same time, so after the race we got to hit up the Farmer's Market. Oh yeah, if you're wondering, Jeff took like 10th in the race.

I told Jeff he has got to wear a different color...every single racer had on either red, white, or black. It made it hard to single him out. Hot pink?

Happy Spectator

Cat 5 Racers

A little down time in between laps

Eden was congratulating Jeff on a good race

In further Goddard news, we spotted Eden' first tooth breaking through the gums today! She'll be so excited to get some real food to munch on!

And here she is preparing to crawl. Right now she pushes herself backwards all over the house. I feel like she needs a "beeping" sound so we all know that she's in reverse!

Eden's First Buddy

2011-09-23T19:23:00.001-07:00

Eden's got herself a little friend. That's right, Beckett-Boy and Eden-Girl. Together they make an adorable, chubby-cheeked duo! Beckett is only 4 weeks younger than Ede. He is the youngest of 5 boys, and the sweetest little thing. He and Eden just love to look at each other and smile.

Sharing some toys and swapping spit in the process

(Beckett would chew on the toy for a little bit, and then Eden would take a turn...)

7 Months Old and Other Random Bits of Life

2011-09-18T20:37:00.000-07:00

Happy 7-Months Eden-Girl!!! Look at her so big. We made it through her first cold...and the truth is, she wasn't even that grouchy!! What a sweetheart. Even with snot dripping down her face, she would still greet me with a smile every morning. Love LOve LOVE this girl!!! (Still no teeth in sight! Isn't she looking so much like Logan?)

Look...this is Logan at about the same age. Similar, no?

And in other news, Logan had a soccer game on Saturday, and man, it was his coming out party!!! He had never scored a goal before, and on Saturday he scored FOUR!!! In fact, he scored all of the goals for his team. In the first five minutes, Logan ripped three goals through the net. And then, even though we weren't keeping score, (ya right), he scored the winning goal with 30 seconds left in the game. The only bummer part of the whole thing was that Jeff wasn't there to see it. He was so proud when we called him after the game though. I was pretty proud myself. (Please just keep reminding me that he's only FIVE!! It's all for fun...it's just to learn...everyone is a winner...etc.)

This was Logan taking a breather and showing me how many goals he had scored so far...

I thought this was funny. Eden looks so small compared to the big kids.
Tea for two. Yes, here are my girls enjoying a tea party in their new playhouse. I made Brighton some lemonade, and I thought she was taking it out to put in her teapot. But instead, she decided to pour it in a bucket and drink it from there. Who needs a teacup when you have a trough.

We have definitely been enjoying the milder weather. Lots of outside time. Trying to fit enough playing time in to last us through the winter.
(I did get Jeff to tighten those straps...they were a little stuck, but now, have no fear, Eden is safe!)

Look at this soccer star!

Some of my all time favs

2011-09-16T07:04:00.000-07:00

I was just browsing through my pictures last night, and something about each of these pictures pulls at my little heartstrings.

I Wish My Chub Was This Cute...

2011-09-12T13:04:00.000-07:00

I just had to post these! Eden has been sick and grouchy, and when I saw these on my camera, they made me smile. I wish I was as happy to be posing naked...

Have I told you that Logan calls her bottom a

"Brain Bum"

Loganisms:

L: Mom, why can't I wear the same clothes everyday like Leo?

(Leo is a cartoon character...)

----------------

L: Today at school we had a substi-tooter

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Logan talking to Mally before school...

L: I knew you were going to match me! I knew you were going to wear the same clothes as me. Heavenly Father told me!

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Again, Mally and Logan talking in the back of the car on the way to school...

M: Hey! That's A1 Insuracnce! That's where my dad works!

L: Hey! Cool!

(Pause...thinking...)

L: I wonder what insurance means?

M: Hmmm...I think it means where people pay lots of money to go on trips and have fun.

L: Oh yeah. That's what it means.

---------------

L Mom, are you afraid of heights?

M: Nah, not really.

L: Then why don't you jump off the roof?

M: I think that would probably break my legs.

L: Dad can do it.

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This one is told to me second hand...

Logan and Mallory are in the car, and Mallory has lost her SECOND tooth already.

M: Logan are any of you teeth wiggly?

L: No, mine are all still glued in.

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Brighty-Pie's-Words-In-The-Sky

B: OH GROSS!! SPERM!!!

M: What?

B: GROSS!!! SPERM!!!

(Totally taken aback...it finally dawned on me that my mom and were kidding about some fireworks that looked like sperm at Roy Days...guess those new tubes are working for Brighty!)

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Brighty using the restroom when Jeff was home...

J: How's it going in there Bright?

B: Dad, number 2 is HOT!

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B: At Miss Betsy's I tell all the boys the rule "Ladies First".

(I bet you do, Dear.)

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And this last one is not from one of my kids, but it still makes me laugh every time I think about it.

Brighton had a little friend come over and play. On the car ride to our house, this little girl looks at me so seriously and says

"Our bodies are special."

"Oh yes, they are." I agree.

"And sometimes my bum itches" she says.

(I just bust out laughing! I hope I didn't offend her!)

Thirty, Flirty, and Thriving

2011-09-12T12:28:00.000-07:00

On Friday, I turned the big "three-oh"! Jeff made it such a fun day. He took time off of work and was so thoughtful. When I woke up Friday morning, there was a sign on my bathroom mirror that said "Our 30 favorite memories of you". All over our house there were pictures taped to the walls. On the table sat "30 presents for the 30-year-old"! Jeff made breakfast, and then he and the kids hid all of my presents. I had to go around the house, and with some very helpful hinting, find my gifts.

I was just laughing sitting and opening them up. Here were some of my favorite gifts...

-A package of Depends

-A cane

-Some 30x reading glasses

-Grandma PJ's

-Beneful

And then there were some real gifts:

-A new hat

-slippers

-People Magazine

-A new phone

-A license plate cover that says "Don't You Dare Call It A Van"

-A box of Jr. Mints

-A box of Charleston Chews

-A Pina Coloda Sobe

-Passes to Lagoon

-Stuff for my hair

-A new book

-makeup

It was just so much fun! Later that day we got to go look at new laminate flooring for our house! We went to dinner at the Olive Garden and Jeff got a babysitter so we could go see The Help.

Such a fun fun day! I so appreciate all the time and effort that Jeff put into making my day memorable. What a great guy!

Saturday we went to Lagoon...but for some reason I can't get those pictures to load. I'll try again later.

Sunday we ate a delicious dinner at my parents house and went to Goddard's for cake! My parents got me a NOOK! I was a little bit leery, I mean, it feels like I'm abandoning my best friend by going electronic, but now I'm so EXCITED!! My family also made this big sign that had all these memories of me on there. (Thirty of them to be exact). I LOVED it! How funny to see what they remember about my life!

Thanks to a WONDERFUL birthday family.

A very cute and clever gift from my friend Gen

Ha! Depends!

30 gifts

Our Family

2011-09-08T21:24:00.001-07:00

Sorry, totally overkill on the pictures! But come one, nothing better than new family photos! Thanks to Shauna Purser...she always manages to capture the best side of us! We did our shoot out at Antelope Island...I think the sunset turned out so cool!

How Do You Win Over Preschoolers?

2011-09-07T19:23:00.000-07:00

How do you win over a bunch of three year olds? Well, Miss Betsy has the right idea! She asked the kids to come dressed up as cowboys and cowgirls on their second day of school! Each student also brought a snack to contribute to some class "Cowboy Grub". Brighton came home with a killer homemade cowboy hat, and my favorite, a homemade belt buckle. Shiny, huge, and covered with our family's names! Brighton is totally sold on school!

Our little Buck-a-roo

Lovin' her boots

So glad she finally had a legit reason to wear her boots...she's been wearing them like this the last few weeks. Not quite sure it works...

Off to Preschool

2011-09-06T17:28:00.000-07:00

FINALLY! Brighton has been so jealous of Logan going to school and today was FINALLY her turn! We packed up her backpack and dad walked her down the street to Miss Betsy's. For months we have been talking about preschool and how fun it will be and who is in her class and how she needs to act, etc.

When I picked her up from the babysitter's today, she went on and on about her first day.

"James cried. He bonked his head twice and he cried."

"I cried 'cuz I tripped and bonked my knee but no blood."

"We did criss-cross applesauce."

"We did the letters and the coconut tree."

"We did another criss-cross applesauce."

"We did the bathroom and I say Ladies First to all the boys."

"Tomorrow I take a treat to Miss Betsy's!!!"

Sounds like a success to me!!!!

(Click here to view Logan on his first day of Miss Betsy's two years ago!)

Happy Preschooler

Her very own backpack!

I love how big that backpack looks on her...past her knees

My two big kids

Traditional shot with Mally

Coming home

She survived!

All heading back home

Six Month Update

2011-09-01T20:38:00.000-07:00

I've been meaning to write this post, for a couple of weeks, but life has just been crazy. (Plus our internet has been sketchy for the last little while...) But it if official! Eden Grace is 6 months old! We just love our happy, peaceful, content baby girl. She continues to be our "Big Baby", and it's probably odd, but I feel a sense of pride in her stature. I mean, my other kids are so obviously Goddard, but size HAS to come from my family, right?

My kids love to play with her. Brighton is pretending to slice her with a sword as we speak. ("Knock that off Brighty. We be soft with Eden!") Eden adores Logan and laughs at him all the time. She watches Brighton with a guarded fascination. (None of us can predict what Brighton will do next!)

Eden loves to hang out in her exer-saucer, chew on toys, go for a walk in the stroller, mow the lawn in the backpack, sit on my lap, pull my hair and my earrings, grab Jeff's cheeks, give wet slobbery open-mouthed kisses, be involved in the action, stick out her tongue, and read little books. Mealtime is a favorite, with her preference being oatmeal and applesauce or prunes. She can hold her own bottle, sit up for small amounts of time before tipping over, roll from tummy to back and back to tummy, put herself to sleep, and she talks and sings all the time.

Still no teeth, but she sure is a drooler. In fact, one of her nicknames is "Drooly Julie". She spits up less than she used to, and sometimes we can go one whole day in the same outfit.

We sure love this baby. And I CANNOT believe that the time has gone so fast.

Here are her current stats:

Height: 27.5 inches....>95%

Weight: 18.8 lbs....90-95%

Head: 17 in....60%

Hair Color: Unknown. She was born with black hair. Then it went really blonde. Now it's growing in darker again.

Eye Color: Unkown. Gushy brownish/greenish/bluish

Nicknames: Eden-Girl, Punken Pie, Drooly Julie, Sis, Ede

We got some amazing family pictures taken...

here is a sneak preview of a couple.

She LOVES this thing!

(And yes, we've had to make it higher already!)

Remember this???

She came with the cheeks and the chin pillow

The Flame-Throwers

2011-08-28T21:21:00.000-07:00

Logan started soccer again! This year we went with AYSO, and it has been such a fun change. There are only three kids from each team on the field at a time. That means everyone gets lots of chances to play and kick the ball. Logan has improved not only in skill, but also in confidence! Remember last year how he cried when soccer started? This year, totally unafraid. I think Logan is a natural defender. He's not so into trying to score, but he sure does like to chase the other players down! And he's fast!!!

It will be so fun to watch another season.

They don't have an official team name yet,

but with the orange and the flames, my vote is the FLAME THROWERS!!!

Lucky number 6

Team Cheer

The happiest face!

My cheerleader!

Brighty was hot...she preferred sitting in the shade far away from the field

(Sorry...I just can't help it!)

The Sweetest Birthday Party Ever!!!

2011-08-28T21:03:00.000-07:00

Sierra is turning 7, and she invited my kids to her birthday party! Camee came up with the CUTEST idea ever...we went to a sweet little bakery, One Sweet Slice, and took lessons on decorating cupcakes. The store owner came out and showed us how to design a cupcake, roll out and work with fondant, and then decorate a delicious cupcake. The best part, definitely tasting the frosting! Happy Birthday Si!

The birthday girl

Big sister Jay...

Jay and Sierra decided they wanted to grow up and open

their own cupcake store. I think that's a swell idea!

Such a big helper!

I want my house to look like this!

Fondant is like yummy play-dough!

Rolling it out...

Eden couldn't have a cupcake, so she settled for paper

Birthday girl

The best part!

Decorating!

My cupcake

(The owner made the fondant bow...)

Moose Hollow

2011-08-22T17:05:00.000-07:00

Finally the Adams family went on a vacation, with not a moment of summer to spare. We trekked up to Huntsville and stayed at our favorite place, Moose Hollow. My cute mom took Brighton up a day early, and had a "girls night" with the cousins Jaycee and Sierra. Everyone else joined a day later where we spent our time swimming, taking walks, collecting bugs, doing play dough, eating, celebrating birthdays, and chatting it up. Even in tight quarters, it was so fun just to be together. And hats off to my amazing mom who cooked for everyone, provided hours of entertainment, and worked tirelessly to keep everyone happy. Thanks Mom! Thanks Dad! We love Moose Hollow!

Setting up a tent for the kids to play in

Brighton being a great big sister

There's my baby girl!

Silly kids!

Look at beautiful Jaycee

We love Sierra

Sibling love

Awwww, the cousins

My handsome guy

Wearing Grandma's "readers"

Swimmin'

She loves to float

My Uncle Zach and little Shogan

Sierra!!!

Water-balloon tossing

Uncle Matt!!

Jaycee catching tadpoles

Looking for Big Moe the fish

Tetherball

Nothing is for fun in our family

Yummy birthday cupcakes

Play-dough on the porch