The Whitakers

6 Inches!

2012-01-18T13:24:00.007-07:00

We woke up to snow this morning and it didn't stop ALL DAY LONG!! Sam was so excited to finally be able to make a snow angel and build a snow man!

I went out to shovel the driveway at nap time and measured the center of the lawn at six inches!

Daniel was a little hesitant to go outside at first, but slowly ventured out. He didn't last very long.

Bill came home a bit early to have some time to play with Sam before it got too dark (still around 5:30!)

A Very Merry Christmas

2011-12-26T21:23:00.024-07:00

We had a whirlwind, but wonderful Christmas in Utah. I left with the boys Tuesday afternoon at nap time. We fared much better this trip and made it in six hours with one stop in Burley. Bill followed via airplane Friday afternoon and we packed as much family and friend time in as possible.

Playing games on Grandma Ellison's iPad. Should I be worried that he knows how to use it better than she does?!

Daniel & Grandpa Ellison

Among our many activities was a trip downtown to Temple Square on Trax. Sam & Daniel loved it. It was snowing when we got there and was just beautiful!

We also got to go to the Children's Museum with Sarah & Drew Gardiner. We love it there!

Sam's dream...flying a helicopter

Daniel, Sam & Drew

Other outings were painting at Color Me Mine and the Aquarium...

Sam with his cousins, Noah & Sloane

After picking Bill up at the airport, we drove straight out to his sister, Carrie's house where Grandma & Grandpa Whitaker and sister, Melinda and her family were. We had so much fun talking and playing.

The next morning (Christmas Eve) we drove back to Carrie's for breakfast and to see Bill's sister, Jacque and brother, James and families. We had a fun gift exchange and played lots more.

Then it was back to G & G Ellison's house for a lovely Christmas Eve dinner. The boys got in their new Christmas pj's and we finally got them both to bed by 9.

It was fun to get everything set up for Santa's arrival. I used to love to look at the Christmas tree without my contacts in. Since having lasik however, I don't get the same effect. This is the best I could do with my camera.

Christmas morning was a blur. My brother Dan and his family stayed over and we were all up by 7. We opened most presents with breakfast in between and then were off to sacrament meeting. I just loved watching the excitement in my children's eyes. We were all terribly spoiled (Bill gave me a Vitamix...I love it! Thank you!!) and had a very memorable morning.

By that afternoon, Sam & Daniel had pretty good colds starting, so we stayed in the whole day. We had to get things packed up to head back home Monday after lunch and made it home with much more than we came down with! Great trip!

2.9 Miles!

2011-12-19T21:25:00.002-07:00

That's how far away our new temple will be from our house. We are so excited! It will still be two years before it is completed, but we can't wait!

Trimming the tree

2011-12-15T14:16:00.009-07:00

We had a fun Sunday evening a few days ago and decorated our beautiful Grand Fir. Both Sam and Daniel really got into the spirit and...

...after just a few adjustments by Mom, the tree looked great!

Then this morning...not so great. I came downstairs after my shower to see this. When I asked Sam what happened his response was, "It felled".

Later, when I showed him the picture I'd taken and asked again what had happened he said (pointing to the red string of beads), "I pulled dith". Mystery solved.

Oh what fun!

2011-12-04T16:18:00.017-07:00

This weekend we bought our first real Christmas tree. We drove about a half hour north of Boise to a tree farm near Horseshoe Bend with the Wilson's. They let you walk around and pick your tree and cut it down for you. It took us a while, but we found the perfect one for our home!

They also had a nice fire going with roasted chestnuts and marshmallows. It was such a fun outing and hopefully the beginning of a new family tradition.

That evening, we went to see the lights at the Botanical Gardens. It was freezing, but worth it since we haven't gotten to Temple Square.

Sam meeting Prancer

Visiting with Santa

And finally, the toy trains...a favorite! After Sam did his second face plant because he wouldn't stop running around, we called it good and went home, but had a great time!

Big boy!

2011-12-02T21:04:00.008-07:00

I can't believe I have a three-year-old! Sam is getting so big and just keeps us laughing. We celebrated with my sister, Becky's family and our friends, the Wilson's.

Mmmmm. Pizza.

Daniel was the official holder of the balloons

Every gift was so exciting

We had all been sick earlier in the week and were just getting back to normal, so a store bought "Cars" cake had to do. It was a hit.

Happy birthday, Sammy. We're so happy you're a part of our family! We love you!

Thanksgiving

2011-11-25T19:39:00.009-07:00

We had a wonderful, but quick, Thanksgiving trip to see Bill's eldest sister, Jacque & family and G & G Whitaker in Utah. Since it is the season of giving thanks, I won't complain too much that we could only leave late Wednesday evening and had to come home Friday afternoon so Bill could get back to work. We are definitely grateful for his job and everything it provides for us!

The boys had a ball playing with their Aunt Jacque, cousins, Erin, Holly and Chance and Grandpa & Grandma.

Making turkey hats

We caught Daniel with a mouthful of dog food a couple of times before moving it outside. He even got through the dog door once, but finally let it go. Poor Pepper got more attention than she probably wanted!

We had a lovely dinner and I even got to do a little Black Friday shopping with Jacque the next morning. Then we met Melinda, Carrie and their families for lunch in Bountiful before hitting the road back to Idaho. (My spare camera gave up too so I don't have pictures)

We had a great time and have so much to be grateful for. Happy Thanksgiving!

Festive Family Night

2011-11-21T20:54:00.008-07:00

This afternoon we got ready for the holidays by making a little hand print turkey:

Sam was a little hesitant to get his hands all messy at first, but after the third hand print, he really enjoyed it. He especially love the googly eyes.

The boys and I drove downtown to meet Bill for the lighting of the Christmas tree at the state capitol. In my haste to get everyone and everything in the car, I dropped my camera on the kitchen tile. It's definitely not working right, but since my old camera wasn't charged, it's all I had and this is the best picture could get.

Sam and Daniel were fascinated by all of the lights. It was a great way to kick off the holiday season!

He IS listening in church!

2011-11-15T21:13:00.004-07:00

Sam found my baster in the kitchen today and was walking around the house using it as a microphone saying, "Brothers and sisters...".

Daniel cannot be left unattended! I turned around for a second to pick up some toys and turned around to see him here. Yikes!!

Happy Halloween

2011-10-31T21:32:00.017-06:00

Daniel's favorite cousin just turned one! It has been so fun to see them start to recognize and check each other out. We love baby Woosee (as Sam calls her)!

In preparation for Halloween we had "Dinner in a Pumpkin" Sunday night.

I taught preschool this morning and all the kids came dressed in their costumes. We had two Snow Whites, Luke Skywalker, Nemo, Spiderman and a frog.

I got Sam and Daniel dressed up in their costumes after dinner and we headed over to a neighborhood park for a trick-or-treat parade. (Sam wanted me to paint his face like a cat too).

Sam collected about six pieces of candy and then wanted to go to the park.

It got cold pretty quickly, so we headed home as soon as we were out of candy.

But not before getting a picture of Daniel and his little friend Aubrie. Cute little lions!

Autumn!

2011-10-24T13:42:00.010-06:00

We have had a beautiful autumn this year and I hope it keeps up at least through Halloween! The boys and I took a bike ride to a nearby park to snap some pictures...

Our Family Home Evening that night was carving pumpkins...

We're ready! Bring on the candy!

Punkin Patch

2011-10-22T21:48:00.010-06:00

The weather has been gorgeous, so this afternoon we headed to a pumpkin patch to buy our pumpkins.

This is as still as I could get the boys to sit for a picture.

Searching for the best pumpkin

They had lots of other fun things to do too. Sam loved jumping on the big pillow in the ground.

Playing in the corn

Riding the cows

Resting with Mom for a split second.

Heading home.

My Baby is One!

2011-10-09T21:02:00.010-06:00

I know I always say this, but I cannot believe it has already been a year! Daniel is growing up way too fast. He is such a joy in our family...we just love having him around!

It was a gorgeous fall day. Perfect for a little birthday party. We had my sisters and their families and our friends, the Wilson's over for a little cake and ice cream.

Daniel absolutely LOVES goldfish crackers, so I thought it appropriate to decorate his cake like one. Don't ever try to take away his cracker cup...you'll have a force to reckon with!

We played outside while it was still light before heading inside to party.

Daniel grabbed a big chunk of his cake and dug in. He seemed a little unsure at first, but warmed right up to the delicious cake!

Big brother Sam helps open presents.

Happy Birthday to our sweet boy! We love you!

End of Summer

2011-09-20T07:31:00.016-06:00

We've had a fun-filled summer and it has flown by! Here are some more of the highlights:

Going to the Boise Classic hot air balloon festival at Ann Morrison Park. We lasted long enough to see two balloons blown up and then had to head home for bed.

Watching for Daddy to come home from work...a daily event (you can see Bill's car turning onto our street).

Daniel learning to walk

Good times with Dad in the back yard

Playing in the children's room at the Art Museum

More playing in the back yard

I'm so glad these boys love to play with each other! We're looking forward to a nice Autumn and more exciting adventures!

Preschool

2011-09-12T13:23:00.007-06:00

Sam started preschool this week! It is a group of six 2-3 year-old kids from our ward and the other five mothers and I take turns teaching in our homes. It is two hours every Monday and Thursday mornings and I taught the first week. We are learning the alphabet, so this week we studied the letter "A".

Nate, Amerie, Olivia, Spencer, Sam (Kenzie was absent)

We did a matching game with animals that begin with the letter A, colored pictures of the animals, read the story and learned the song, "The Ants Go Marching", had a snack of "Ants on a log" and apple slices and made a little "Autumn" craft.

The kids sat still pretty well most of the time, but the last half hour they were ready to just play. Daniel loved being part of the gang. Sam gets along with all of the kids pretty well (he's knows most of them from the nursery in our ward). I think this will be really good for him and help prepare him to be a Sunbeam next year. And the weeks it's not at our house will be really good for me so I can run errands with just Daniel. It will be a breeze!

Sun Valley

2011-09-10T16:51:00.014-06:00

I always look forward to this time of year because we get to go to Sun Valley, ID for a few days. This time we left at noon on Thursday so we could enjoy most of the day there. We picked Bill up at work so the boys could take their nap in the car. They slept most of the time and we arrived a little after 3 and checked in.

Since our friends, the Wilson's moved here, they came too and we hung out with them most of the time. We went swimming every day (I never had my camera with me though...boo!) in the wonderfully heated pool. It was great weather; a little chilly in the mornings and evenings, but perfect the rest of the time.

Sam relaxing on his bed. This year we got a family suite that had two rooms. It was a life saver when it came to nap and bedtime!

Feeding the ducks

Even Daniel wanted to participate!

Walking through Ketchum

Dinner at Despo's in Ketchum

Catching a little football on a break from Bill's meetings

One last feeding

Just before leaving for home. I hope this tradition keeps up!

Utah Visit [Second Stop: St. George]

2011-08-23T12:32:00.020-06:00

We headed down to St. George Wednesday afternoon, stopped for dinner in Cedar City and made it to Bill's parents new house that evening.

They have a gorgeous view of the whole city. Three of Bill's sisters and his brother and their families had been there for a few days, so we were so happy to get to join the chaos! Fourteen grandchildren under the age of 13=not much sleep! Two other sisters and two older cousins stayed in a house nearby that Bill's parents rented for a week.

They have a wonderful pool in the backyard that was occupied almost 24/7. Sam finally got brave enough to swim on his own wearing his water wings and had a ball.

Watching a movie with cousin Seth

Watching a movie with cousin Andrew

More swimming (and squirting Uncle James)

Daniel loved the pool too and was always his happy little self

Daniel and his second cousin, Riley. They were born on the same day, just a few hours apart!

Whitaker Family talent show

Sam singing "Little Red Caboose"

Last night with everyone

We had so much fun and miss everyone already! We hope it's not too long before we can all get together again. We can't wait to meet our two new Whitaker cousins next spring!

Utah Visit [First Stop: Salt Lake]

2011-08-18T18:17:00.007-06:00

We had a whirlwind trip to Utah these last two weeks. It all started when Sam, Daniel and I drove down to visit my parents (Bill had to work). I was really nervous about traveling alone with them, but I timed it so we would leave right after lunch in time for their afternoon naps. Everything was going great, and maybe I was getting a little too cocky because when we got to Ogden, it all fell apart.

Traffic slowed to almost a complete stop because of an accident and suddenly, Sam started screaming. I turned to see what was wrong just in time to see him throw up...twice. Because of the accident, I couldn't get off the freeway for almost 10 minutes. Fortunately, I had just talked to my friend, Sarah and we had arranged for us to stop at their house in Farmington for a little break. I pulled off at the next exit and cleaned Sam up as best as I could and then quickly headed to Sarah's. Sam seemed fine playing with his friend, Drew, so I decided it was just motion sickness. Then, as we were getting ready to leave, Sarah asked if I'd like to take a bucket just in case. A few minutes after she gave it to me, Sam started gagging again and, luckily, I caught it all in the bucket. I threw the boys and all our things in the car and headed to my parents. We hadn't been there more than 20 minutes when he threw up again. So I just got all our stuff from the car and put the boys and me in bed.

I wasn't sure what was wrong with Sam, so we just took it easy Friday and hung out at my parents house. It was my brother, Dan's birthday, so we had a bbq with them and played outside.

Daniel and Noah became fast friends

My sisters family was also visiting and I took my boys and her kids to the Church History Museum on Saturday. It was pretty crowded, but they still had a great time checking out the children's exhibit.

Sam enjoyed playing with (and putting stickers on) my brother, Dave.

Sunday afternoon I took my boys and two nephews up to Silver Lake near Brighton Resort. I love it up there and the walk around the lake was beautiful.

Sam helping Grandpa mow the lawn

Cousins: Asher, Noah & Sloane

We also went to Hogle Zoo (forgot my camera), had lunch or dinner with lots of friends and played in the fountain at Gateway. It was a great visit. Bill flew in Tuesday evening (thank heavens!) and we drove down to St. George Wednesday afternoon for the Whitaker family reunion. More pictures to follow...

Hoops

2011-08-06T20:21:00.012-06:00

Bill played basketball in a city league this weekend. It was 3 on 3 and they blocked off most of 8th Street downtown and had over 40 half courts, one right after the other.

Bill's team played two games Friday night and then two games Saturday morning, and then they were out.

The boys and I drove down to watch the last game Saturday morning. It was already quite warm, but since we found a place in the shade, it was very pleasant.

After the last game, we walked up toward The Grove where the fountain is to cool off a bit.

Of course, no outing would be complete without a nice collection of sticks. He is such a boy!

And Daniel has learned how to do "so big"

Banks Beach

2011-08-01T13:17:00.009-06:00

We spent a beautiful afternoon along the Boise River at Banks Beach on Saturday. We drove up with our friends, the Wilsons and splashed around in the freezing water and watching the rafters float by.

Daniel wasn't sure what to think of the sand at first, but got comfortable pretty quickly and was all over the place. Sam loved building sand castles and playing catch with Joshua and Bill.

Just before we left, Bill dunked me in the water. Sam, concerned at my screaming, started crying and still reminds us of what Daddy did to Mommy. I will get my revenge!

BBQ

2011-07-19T19:54:00.009-06:00

The cutest family shares our back yard fence and we have loved getting to know them. Aimee and Reganza (Sam calls him Gonzo) have 5 kids from age 3 to 12. They escaped from the Congo a few years ago. We had them over for a BBQ the other night and had so much fun eating and playing.

Bill and I had planned on grilling a few hot dogs and hamburgers and had some fruit and chips to go along with it. But when the knock came on the door and we saw even more hotdogs and 8 different pots filled with other African food, we knew we were in for a feast!

Aimee even taught me how to make "foo-foo" (sp?) that made from corn flour and becomes the consistency of mashed potatoes.

Sam loved running around with all the kids

I couldn't believe all the food. It was a fun night.

Horsethief Reservoir

2011-07-09T15:38:00.019-06:00

We spent the last four days with my family at Horsethief Reservoir. It's two hours north of Boise, just a few miles east of Cascade and absolutely beautiful!

Relaxing on the porch

Me on a zip-line

Daniel rarely took a nap, but was still his cheerful little self!

Making s'mores

Sam was never without a stick and loved running around with all of his cousins and fishing with Daddy.

The whole Ellison clan (minus my youngest brother, Dave)

Oh, Say Can You See...

2011-07-04T14:45:00.009-06:00

We love you, America!

Watching an early fireworks show with the Mannings.

Teach a boy to fish...

2011-07-02T12:57:00.006-06:00

Bill has been dying to take Sam fishing with him, and to go himself since it's been over a year. There is a little pond stocked with fish just a few miles from our house, so Bill took Sam in the bike trailer and Daniel and I followed in the car to take some pictures.

Sam thinks any stick is a fishing pole, so I think he'll be his daddy's best fishing buddy in no time!

Pioneer Trek

2011-06-27T12:47:00.011-06:00

Bill spent four days this last week on Pioneer Trek with our ward. He was asked to be a "shadow leader" and help out where he was needed. It was rough not having him around and really weird to not even be able to call or text him. We all missed him so much, but he had a great time so it was worth it.

Pioneers entering "the Valley"

Bill played one of the mobsters persecuting the Saints (hence the mustache) and also Joseph Smith during a devotional. Everyone said he did an amazing job.

Sam wasn't quite sure what to think about his dad's new look.

We welcomed the "trekkers" home in a little town called Placerville, near Idaho City where they began their 36 mile journey. We had a fun picnic and music before heading home. We were so glad to have Bill back!!

Daniel having a little snack

Just too cute

2011-06-19T20:07:00.006-06:00

Eagle Days

2011-06-11T09:23:00.011-06:00

We couldn't call ourselves true Idahoans if we didn't attend a rodeo or two, so this weekend we checked out Eagle Days. Sam called it the "roady roady".

We went early enough to watch the smaller children ride the goats. Sam loved it.

Especially his sno-cone.

A dirt Zamboni

Daniel was so tired, but refused to sleep. He didn't want to miss out on anything!

Our friends, the Wilsons

We left before the big events started, but will hopefully catch another roady roady later this summer.

Another milestone

2011-06-02T10:16:00.003-06:00

Sam is 2 1/2 years old today. I just can't believe how fast time is flying by!

This was just a cute picture I wanted to add. Daniel just lights up when he sees Sam and is starting to follow him everywhere as best he can. And Sam loves his little brother too. They're great buddies already!

A Birthday

2011-06-01T13:01:00.009-06:00

Happy birthday to Bill! This was not the most ideal way to celebrate. Daniel had been sick since Sunday and then it hit Sam and me...hard. Bill stayed home from work today to take care of us and what did he get in return by the end of the day? The same thing we all had. It was awful.

Never fear! We will make it up to you when we're all back to normal...whatever that is! We love you Bill! Hope this year is even better than the last 31!

P.S. How cute is this little boy?! I see Daniel in a few years.

Father & Son Campout

2011-05-22T19:20:00.009-06:00

Bill took Sam on his very first camping trip this weekend. They joined our ward for the Priesthood Commemoration celebration up at Grayback Gulch near Idaho City. Sam, as you will see, had the time of his life...

Trying out our neighbors 4-wheeler

A boy with his sticks

Helping Dad pump up the air mattress

More sticks

It took Bill quite a while to settle Sam down enough to get him in his sleeping bag. Jumping on the air mattress was just way too much fun!

Then it took Bill quite a while to wake Sam up in the morning. He was exhausted!

I can tell it was a successful trip since Sam still talks about it. Can't wait until next year!

Mother's Day

2011-05-08T19:22:00.009-06:00

Sometimes I still can't believe that I have two little bundles of joy. They are so much fun and I am so grateful that I get to be their mother! Yesterday we went shopping for a bike for me and came home with this:

I love it; especially that it's yellow!

We've been on a couple of rides already. It's a smooth ride!

Daniel is almost doing a full crawl. I really need to start watching him now because he can get himself across a room in just a few seconds. Time to really baby-proof the house again.

I didn't see how he got himself under the jumper, but he seemed pretty content to play with it from the bottom.

Happy Mother's Day to all the women who are such great friends and examples to me!!

More Zoo Boise

2011-05-02T19:15:00.008-06:00

We've been hitting the zoo about once a week these days. Sam loves it and it really gets his energy out. We especially love going with our friends, the Wilson's!

The giraffe slide: an important stop.

The komodo dragon: always a hit

Safari Jeep: everyone needs a turn at the wheel!

And penguins: you can't miss these!

Easter

2011-04-24T20:43:00.014-06:00

We had a beautiful Easter weekend. My parents came up from Salt Lake on Friday and stayed at our house. Sam was in heaven playing with his grandparents.

Playing with Playdoh and Grandma

Saturday morning, we had an Easter egg hunt in our backyard with my sisters families and our friends, the Wilson's. It was a gorgeous morning and all the little kids loved running around finding the eggs and seeing what was inside.

Sam made out like a bandit. Daniel slept through the whole thing.

I even found a few for myself!

Annie, Cael, Whit & Rachel

Sunday morning, Sam found a few treats left by the Easter Bunny. He loved the chocolate balls wrapped as basketballs, baseballs, soccer balls and footballs and his new fish and car puzzles.

Daniel was really excited about his little stuffed dinosaur.

Playing puzzles with Grandpa before they left.

Six Months

2011-04-09T11:44:00.002-06:00

This little tank is six months old today. He is getting so big and changing so much each day. We just love having him around! He loves to watch his older brother and pull his moms hair. What a munchkin!

We're on the map!

2011-04-04T12:02:00.011-06:00

We had a wonderful General Conference weekend. The best part was when President Monson announced that we would be getting a temple right here in Meridian! The Boise temple is really not far from us, but to have one even closer will hopefully make a difference in our attendance!

Sam performing the ABC's

We bought an annual pass to the Boise zoo and have been twice already. It's no San Diego Zoo, but Sam loves it and it will be a nice option to pass the days this spring and summer.

Feeding the giraffes and goats was a big hit!

Trying to listen to General Conference

Four Years!

2011-03-17T09:02:00.006-06:00

It's been a great four years! Bill surprised me by taking the day off. We all went to lunch and then I went to have a wonderful massage. I could do that every week!

We had our friends, the Wilsons, from our NYU days come into town for a visit that afternoon and had a great time hanging out with them.

Here's to another great 4 years! I love you Bill!

Rollin' rollin' rollin'

2011-03-09T22:43:00.005-07:00

This little guy is five months old! I just can't believe how fast the months are flying by and how big he is getting! He was well over 15 pounds at his 4 month well check. He has his big brother beat in both height and weight at this age.

Whenever I lay him down on his back, he immediately flips to his tummy.

Then, when he's tired of tummy time, he flips back over...

He is such a happy little guy!

Sam was not so happy the other day when he turned around and smacked his forehead on the corner of a book shelf. Poor guy.

Ugh!

2011-02-17T07:55:00.009-07:00

I knew we were being spoiled when we had sun and 50+ degrees earlier this week. This is what we woke up to this morning:

Sam was a big helper shoveling the driveway

Taking a quick break for a refreshing snack

It started last night with a little hailstorm and some thunder and lightning. Sam was fascinated with all the little white, "cold balls" on our patio.

Random photo of Sam giving Daniel a massage with a vibrating golf ball. Poor Daniel.

A Week in Utah

2011-02-14T08:30:00.015-07:00

Since this winter has seemed to just be dragging on and on, we went to Utah for a week for a change of scenery. Sam, Daniel and I stayed at my parents for a week. Bill drove down with us, stayed a few days and then flew home for a few to work. Then he flew back down for a couple and we all drove home together. It was a great week and went way too fast! We had a great time seeing some of our family and friends. We only wish we could have seen everyone!

While Bill was in town, we tried to do lots of fun things. One fav was the Aquarium. Since Sam is a huge Nemo fan, we had a hard time pulling him away from "Bruce".

Petting the sting rays

Daniel was a trooper

One morning we rode the "choo-choo train" (Trax). We didn't have a destination in mind since it was so cold out and would have had to walk outside once we got off. We just rode it to the end of the line and back to our car. Sam was in heaven with Grandma & Grandpa Ellison.

Sam conned both Grandma and Grandpa to play trains with him several times a day.

The days that Bill was gone were pretty crazy. It made me realize how much he helps me with the boys and how grateful I am for him!! Thank goodness for grandparents and cousins who were there to make the time more fun for Sam!

Sam and his cousin, Noah

Sam & his buddy, Drew G.

Pizza at the Anderson cousins house

On our way out of town I got to see my cousin Rob's new baby girl, Clara. Love the dark hair!

We had such a great time. I'm looking forward to another trip when the weather is warmer and we can see more friends!

Uncle Robert

2011-01-16T21:28:00.009-07:00

My dear uncle Robert passed away this week. He was my mother's only sibling. I have wonderful memories of him tickling me if I didn't have a bow in my hair and spending Thanksgiving with his family. Becky and I drove down to Salt Lake with the babies for the funeral. It was a beautiful service. He was an amazing man and will be missed.

ROBERT SLOAN, Jr.

Robert Charles Sloan, Jr. 1936 ~ 2011 Our beloved husband, father, grandfather and brother, Robert Charles Sloan, Jr., passed away at home on January 11, 2011, at the age of 74. He was born March 22, 1936, to Robert Charles and Laura Egan Sloan. His was a happy childhood, growing up on the Avenues with his sister, Betty Ellen, surrounded by both sets of grandparents, family, and friends. He treasured his life-long friendships from the Twentieth Ward. As a young man, he served in the Swiss-Austrian mission where he established a pattern of faithful service and was blessed with wonderful associations and experiences. Upon his return, he continued his studies at the University of Utah, where he was a member of Sigma Chi fraternity, graduating with a business degree and an MBA. On September 1, 1961, he married his eternal companion, Janet Laughlin, in the Salt Lake Temple. He joined his father at the Sloan Insurance Agency established by his grandfather and was known for his integrity and professionalism. He was one of the first in the state to earn his CPCU designation. Robert was a faithful and devoted member of the LDS Church, serving in many capacities including as a young bishop of the Monument Park 1st Ward, high councilor, a national officer for Sigma Gamma Chi church fraternity, as a mission president to the wonderful missionaries of the West Virginia Charleston Mission (1996-1999), and as an ordinance worker in the Salt Lake Temple for nearly seven years. He was a faithful hometeacher to the end. He was known for his physical fitness and had a great love for the beauties of nature and found great pleasure in running, hiking, camping and backpacking with loved ones in our beautiful state. His love of fine music continues in his children and grandchildren. He valued his pioneer heritage and enjoyed attending the monthly Sons of Utah Pioneers functions and left a legacy to his posterity worthy of emulation. During the last several years, he endured with patience and without complaint the loss of his vision as well as declining abilities due to the effects of Alzheimer's disease. He was an example to those who knew him of gentle dignity, unwavering faith, and a grateful heart. He was blessed with the gift of wisdom and many came to him for advice and counsel. He is survived by his wife; sons - David (Martha), Stephen (Marta), and Richard; daughters - Julie Newton (Bruce), Suzanne Richards (Mark), Elisabeth Lambert (Kevin), Catherine Blake (Michael); 27 grandchildren; his sister, Betty Ellison (Peter); and aunt, Elaine Stevens Williams. The family extends grateful appreciation to Loyda Tovar for her loving care these past six months and to our dear neighbors and friends, Bob and Julie Anderson, for their ever-constant kindnesses through the years. There will be a viewing Friday night, January 14th, at Larkin Sunset Lawn (2350 East 1300 South) from 6-8:00 p.m. Funeral services will be Saturday, January 15th, at noon at the Monument Park First Ward (1005 South 2000 East) with a viewing prior to the services at the ward from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the LDS Church's Humanitarian Fund or Perpetual Education Fund or to the Utah Symphony of which he was a life-long patron. Interment at the Salt Lake City Cemetery. Online condolences at www.larkincares.com.

Merry Christmas

2010-12-25T16:55:00.011-07:00

We had a very merry Christmas this year. We drove down to Logan Thursday afternoon. Daniel was great on his first roadtrip. We stopped once and arrived around 8 pm. We were so excited that three of Bill's sisters were there. Daniel got to meet some of his cousins and Sam loved playing with all the boys.

Whitaker boys: Daniel, Seth, Andy & Sam

Daniel & Leah

Sam played a shepherd in our reading of The Nativity

Daniel slept like a champ

Christmas morning was magical. It was so fun to see Sam and his cousin, Andy opening presents. They were excited about everything they got. They played together pretty well (except for a few scuffles caused by Sam).

Sam in his new "Cars" chair

It was such a fun weekend! We had to head back home Sunday morning. We made it home in 4 1/2 hours without one stop! Daniel is a little angel!

Two Months!

2010-12-09T08:40:00.004-07:00

This little guy is getting so big! He now weighs 12 lbs 12 oz and is 24 inches long. He is smiling and cooing all the time. We just love him!

Blessing Day

2010-12-06T10:26:00.008-07:00

What a special weekend we've had! We were so happy that so many family members were able to come to Daniel's blessing.

Sam loves his little brother!

Bill gave Daniel a beautiful blessing.

Grandma & Grandpa Ellison with Lucy & Daniel

It was so neat to be able to bless two little babies. They're already great friends!

Mom, Me & Daniel

Birthday Boy!

2010-12-02T15:50:00.008-07:00

Our little Sammy is two! I can't believe it! He has been the most fun little boy and we are so grateful to have him in our family!

We spent the morning of his birthday at Monkey Bizness with Ann, Cael & Whit. They had a blast!

Since my parents, Bill's parents and my brother Dan and his family were coming to town a couple of days later for Daniel's baby blessing, we waited to celebrate with them. Sam is pretty obsessed with garbage trucks, so this was my attempt at decorating his cake with one. The 40 represents the age that my sister, Ann and her husband recently turned.

Sam loved the Happy Birthday singing...

...and opening his presents.

We love you Sam!

Thanksgiving

2010-11-25T10:19:00.004-07:00

We had a wonderful Thanksgiving at my sister, Becky's house. It wasn't a very relaxing day, however. Now I know what my mom meant when she'd say she'd spend all day cooking on Thanksgiving! We made the mashed potatoes, rolls, a salad and dessert. It was all delicious!

We have so much to be grateful for. Happy Thanksgiving!

Daniel & Lucy

One Month!

2010-11-09T09:44:00.008-07:00

Our little Daniel is already a month old! The weeks just seem to fly by. I was looking at the pictures of him in the hospital and couldn't believe how much he looks like his older brother.

Sam

Daniel

Sam

Daniel

The Whitaker's have some pretty dominant genes!

They're Very Refreshing!

2010-11-03T19:48:00.004-06:00

Both Sam and Daniel have had colds this week, so I pulled out the humidifier and had it in our bedroom two nights ago. I saw Sam playing around with it, but didn't notice anything amiss when I took it to his room last night. The next morning I woke up to a very weird, but sweet, smell in the entire upstairs. It got stronger when I got to Sam's room and I couldn't figure out what in the world it could be. The closer I got to the humidifier, I realized it was the problem and took it to the laundry room sink to clean it out. As I was taking it apart, what did I find had been stuffed in the tower?

Sam had found Bill's stash of leftover Halloween candy by our bed and stealthily slid a tasty box of Junior Mints in the tower and put the lid back on. The box, though pretty mushy, was still sealed and intact, but the mints had been completely vaporized!

Happy Halloween

2010-10-30T20:22:00.012-06:00

Since Halloween fell on a Sunday this year, we went to a neighborhood trick-or-treating parade Saturday evening. The weather was gorgeous and Sam had a blast!

When I first got Sam's giraffe costume, he wanted nothing to do with it, especially the hat. But tonight, he wouldn't take it off! He kept patting himself saying, "soft". He definitely got into the spirit of the holiday and gladly accepted any candy anyone was willing to give him. He even mastered saying, "Trick-or-treat"!

Taking a break from collecting candy

Our little giraffe...

...and little hot dog

Lucy Jane Hansen

2010-10-29T16:17:00.006-06:00

She finally arrived! We are so excited to have another cousin!

Daniel & Lucy

(19 days apart)

One Week!

2010-10-16T13:19:00.014-06:00

One week can sure fly by fast! Daniel and I came home from the hospital Friday night. Grandma & Grandpa Whitaker arrived Tuesday morning and spent some quality time with Sam.

They left Thursday morning and Grandma & Grandpa Ellison arrived later that afternoon...

...and stayed until Tuesday morning. It was so great to have so much extra help!

Daniel also got to meet his Hansen cousins. Seth...

Luke

Jonah

and Rachel

Daniel is constantly getting hugs and kisses from his adoring big brother.

First bath

Introducing...

2010-10-11T12:13:00.011-06:00

Daniel James Whitaker

Born Saturday, 9 October at 8:56 am.

7 lbs, 8 oz, 20 1/2 inches

Kiss from big brother

Visit from Uncle Jared...

and Aunt Becky

Sweet little boy

Sun Valley

2010-09-11T18:14:00.009-06:00

Oh, how I love Sun Valley! This was our second time going for an estate planning conference for Bill. The weather was cool, but pleasant and we had a great time. It wasn't as relaxing as last year because Sam was running all over the place. He's getting faster and faster and I'm getting slower and slower. He thinks it's hilarious to run away from me and squeals louder and runs faster the more I shout his name and run after him. He's going to wear me out!

Feeding the ducks

Taking a break and watching "Cars"

Running from Daddy

Taking a dip in the heated pool...Heaven!

More time with the ducks

Summer dinner

2010-09-04T21:44:00.008-06:00

My sister's and I were finally able to find an evening to get our families together for an end of summer dinner. We all met at Ann's house and played in their beautiful back yard, ate delicious food and chatted until the sun went down. It was great!

Sam on the horsie swing with Seth & Luke

Yummy dinner

Seth & Sam cornering Licky. Poor cat.

Playing croquet

Summer Daze

2010-08-30T08:19:00.008-06:00

This summer has flown by but it's been a fun one! We had several days of over 100 degrees, but tried to get out as much as possible. Sam loves to be outside doing anything!

Sam discovers static with his balloons

Enjoying the soft grass and a cool evening

Sam discovered the wooden shoes I brought home from my mission. He insisted on wearing them the rest of the day and loved the clicking sound and echo they make on the tile in the kitchen.

Feeding the goats at the Boise Zoo. He couldn't get enough!

Helping daddy wash the car

Thirty-WHAT?!?!?

2010-08-26T08:18:00.006-06:00

It's true. I am thirty-five. Why does that number sound so much older than I feel (and look, I hope)?!

I had a great day! Bill came home from work early and had arranged for my sister to watch Sam that evening so we could go have a nice, quiet dinner. We went to Bardenay and sat on their beautiful patio along the river. Then he surprised me with a wonderful gift certificate for a 1 1/2 hour massage. He also promised me a "free day" on Saturday where he took Sam the whole day and I got to work on a few unfinished projects. In between, I went to my massage and was in pure heaven!

Just when I thought the celebrating was over, Bill baked two cakes after church on Sunday and had me convinced that they were for someone's birthday at work. Then after dinner, both my sister's and their families showed up for a little party. What a guy!

Sam enjoyed his own piece of cake and chasing all of his cousins around the house. Thank you for a wonderful birthday weekend!

Visit to Utah

2010-08-10T12:27:00.013-06:00

Whitaker Reunion at Disneyland

2010-07-08T21:40:00.013-06:00

I can't believe this trip has already come and gone! It seems like we had been looking forward to it forever and now it's just a memory. We had a blast with Bill's parents, brother, four of six sisters and their families.

We left for the airport early Sunday morning. After a 2 hour flight, a 30 minute wait for our shuttle and another 45 minute drive, we made it to our hotel.

Sam did great. He was wide-eyed the entire time and loved all the rides (except the Haunted Mansion--what were we thinking??). I would take him back to the hotel for a wonderful 3 hour nap in the afternoons and then we'd hit the parks again. I loved all the walking, since I haven't been doing much at home, but I was sad to miss all of my favorite rides. "It's a Small World" just doesn't give me the same rush as "Tower of Terror"!

The weather was perfect! It was nice and cool in the mornings and just right in the afternoons. We had three full days in both parks and even spent Thursday morning hitting some last rides before heading for the airport. We miss everyone already!

More Fun & Games

2010-06-27T19:06:00.013-06:00

Since our neighborhood pool isn't finished yet, we've been tagging along with my sister to theirs. Sam is becoming quite a little fish.

My good friend, Lissy and her husband Mark drove up from Utah for a quick visit this weekend. We had so much fun showing them around and taking in some of the Boise sights.

Sam playing in a water fountain.

Bill chasing Sam. This kid is getting fast!

Walking along the Boise River

Sam had a full weekend!

We have had a ball with all of our visitors! Hopefully it won't be too long before someone else wants to check out the Treasure Valley. We've got rooms waiting!!

Happy Father's Day!

2010-06-20T13:02:00.006-06:00

We had a very special Father's Day weekend. Friday morning Sam and I picked up our friend's, Ted, Sarah & Drew Gardiner, from the airport. They live in Utah, but we don't get to see them nearly enough and we were so excited to spend a fun, long weekend with them!

It was perfect weather for barbecuing and playing outside. And when the little ones went to bed, we played all of our favorite games.

Sam & Drew at Goldy's for breakfast

Walking along the Greenbelt Sunday afternoon

Throwing rock in the Boise River. Sam couldn't get enough!

We had a blast! We haven't laughed that hard in a long time and can't wait for the next time!

Summer is here!

2010-06-12T13:43:00.009-06:00

Now that we've been having warmer weather lately, we've been taking advantage! Last weekend, Bill had to work a few hours on Saturday, so Sam and I met him downtown for the Farmer's Market and lunch.

Strolling through the market

Checking out our state's Capitol Building

(Bill & Sam watching a helicopter)

Playing in the fountain on the Grove

Sam has now started working on his dribbling skills. He spends 80% of our time outside practicing over and over. He'll start with one ball and when that one gets away from him, he finds another and starts over. He is a very determined little guy!

Taking a break from his workout

I turned on a Baby Einstein video for him last night so I could start dinner. He normally won't stay put for long, but when I realized it had been quiet for a while, I peeked over the couch to find him like this. Those jungle animals are fascinating!

It's a...

2010-06-04T15:29:00.005-06:00

BOY!!!!

It's somebody's birthday...

2010-06-01T21:24:00.006-06:00

I wonder who?

Bill turned 31 today. Happy Birthday, Baby!

We had my sisters and their families over for cake and icecream

And Sam tackled his cousin, Seth.

Almo, Idaho

2010-05-31T18:58:00.021-06:00

We spent this Memorial Day weekend in Almo, Idaho. It is still a quiet little southern Idaho town, but seems to becoming a more popular vacation destination because it is so close to the City of Rocks. Many of Bill's ancestors lived in the area, so it has a special place in all of the Whitakers' hearts. The scenery is absolutely gorgeous, so it's not hard to see why.

Four of Bill's 6 sisters and their families all came and we stayed in these cute little cabins. All of Bill's dad's siblings and some of their children and grandchildren were also there so we had a great time catching up with those we don't get to see very often.

We had a great time exploring the amazing rock formations in the City of Rocks.

A few of my sweet sisters-in-law: Tina, Carrie & Melinda

Sam turned out to be quite the little rock climber!

Sam had a great time getting reacquainted with his cousins

Games until midnight

(a pretty big deal for me, since I tend to turn into a pumpkin by 9:30 pm)

Andy, Seth & Sam

View behind our room

The weekend went by way too fast, but we had such a great time! Hopefully this will become a tradition every couple of years!

Pictures

2010-05-08T11:47:00.009-06:00

A Boy and His Ball

2010-05-03T07:46:00.005-06:00

This kid would spend 24 hours a day outside with his basket balls and hoop if I let him. Fortunately, we've had some really nice days so we get a few hours out there in the afternoons. He's becoming very good at getting any kind of ball in the hoop (much to his daddy's delight!) and even gets mad if I don't raise it up higher for more of a challenge. I can't wait for the crazy wind to die down a bit and 70+ degrees! I could use some sun myself!

Amazing Grace

2010-04-27T11:26:00.004-06:00

Makes me cry everytime...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ODpDh-Wx5GE

Announcing...

2010-04-18T17:56:00.005-06:00

Yep! We are expecting a new little munchkin! We are looking forward to welcoming him or her to our family sometime on or around October 19th. This picture was taken in February when we told our families, so Sam is even bigger now! (That shirt doesn't fit anymore)

I'm still waiting for the nausea and fatigue to take a hike. With Sam, I remember finally feeling well by week 17. Just a few weeks to go!

Are you looking at me?

2010-04-12T08:19:00.005-06:00

Hoppy Easter!

2010-04-04T20:18:00.009-06:00

We spent a wonderful Easter and General Conference weekend in Logan. We drove down Thursday night and were so excited when Bill's sister, Melinda and her family arrived Friday afternoon. We hadn't seen them since October and Sam warmed right up to everyone and loved playing with his cousins.

Sam trying to give Baby Seth a kiss. Seth's not so sure what to think.

Playing Jenga

Leah, Grandpa, Spencer, Lauren & Sam dyeing Easter eggs.

Sam discovering what the Easter Bunny left for him.

This Easter was extra special because it was Bill's dad's birthday too! We had a great time hanging out with everyone, listening to General Conference and, of course, eating. Conference is getting trickier to listen to with Sam, but he took some good naps and we were able to really enjoy it.

It was a fun weekend and such a nice way to celebrate our Savior and His resurrection.

Monkey Bizness

2010-03-25T17:53:00.009-06:00

Since we've had so many cold and rainy days lately, we've had to be creative with how we spend the afternoons. This week we went to an indoor play place called Monkey Bizness. Sam is still a little small for most of the equipment, but he seems to really love running around watching the other children.

It gets him nice and worn out for his afternoon nap! I love it!

Sam has a couple of buddies that keep him company in his crib. His little lion is hidden by the wolf, but I assure you, it is definitely there.

Saturday turned out to be a pretty nice day, so Sam helped Dad get his bike all spiffed up for a ride. He's a great little helper!

Trip

2010-03-21T17:16:00.018-06:00

Poor Sam has been sick two weekends in a row. This last time included throwing up, no appetite, a cough and runny nose. We wondered if we'd be able to take our trip to Utah we'd been planning. Thankfully, by Wednesday Sam seemed to be on the mend so we hit the road that afternoon and arrived in SLC late that evening. He slept most of the way and it was great!

We joined in my dad's weekly Saturday breakfast at McDonalds with my brother, Dan and his kids, Noah and Sloane. Sam just loves them.

After a healthy breakfast, we went to see their new house and their sweet new little baby.

Asher Thomas Ellison was born January 4, 2010. He is a clone of his older brother, Noah.

Each night, we got to visit with friends that we haven't seen in a while. It was great!

Ted & Drew and Bill & Sam

Saturday night was a yummy fondue party/baby shower. Delicious!

Sam & Dad...best buddies!

This just shows who thinks he runs the show around here.

Three Years!

2010-03-17T08:27:00.004-06:00

Happy Anniversary, my Sweetheart! I love you!

Cool Dude

2010-03-10T12:18:00.003-07:00

This is how Sam ate breakfast this morning...

Outside!

2010-02-18T19:38:00.007-07:00

We're so excited to finally get to play outside! We've had some really nice days here and there and Sam loves going out in the backyard.

My sister let us borrow some of their toddler toys and Sam has loved the slide and basketball hoop.

It wears him out so afternoon naps have gotten better, much to my delight!

Sam has also taken a liking to Myrtle, our garden turtle.

Shout Out!

2010-02-12T13:17:00.011-07:00

I had some great college roommates! My college years were way too long ago, but whenever I get a chance to see or talk to any of my old roomies, it's just like old times. The other day I talked to one of my favs, Autumn. The last time we talked was over a year ago, but we just gabbed for ever and laughed and reminisced. It was so fun.

We lived together for three semesters and took a couple of fun trips too. I grabbed my scrapbook and found a few fun pics. Here we are at Dead Horse Point just outside of Moab, UT.

Trying to be funny in Rock Canyon in Provo, UT.

After church

Here we are in Driggs, ID with Lori and Stephanie, two other favorites! I am so lucky to have such great friends. I love and miss you girls!

I Love Surprises!

2010-02-07T14:35:00.025-07:00

I have the greatest husband! Sam and I were coming inside from the backyard Friday afternoon when I heard voices in the kitchen. I was so confused when I saw that Bill was home early from work and then got even more confused when my eyes adjusted from the sun outside and I realized his sister, Jacque and niece, Erin were standing next to him. Bill told me to pack a bag for a surprise night away from home and it finally registered that Jacque and Erin had driven up from Utah to stay with Sam.

Bill wouldn't tell me where we were going, but I figured it out as soon as we turned north. We have been wanting to go up to McCall ever since we got to Idaho. It took a couple of hours, but the drive was gorgeous! It reminded me a lot of Big Cottonwood Canyon in Salt Lake in many places and made me miss Utah a little.

We got into town around 6 o'clock and found a yummy little Mexican restaurant for dinner. There was tons of snow and it was freezing. The hot tub and sauna were wonderful!

The next morning, we had breakfast and got dressed and headed to the "downtown" area. The Winter Carnival was going on and there were tons of snow sculptures and little booths to look at.

Before heading back home, we drove around town a little and dreamed of having a cabin by the lake one day. You can't see it very well because of the snow and fog, but Payette Lake is beautiful. We definitely will be heading back up there this summer!

Sam was in heaven with his aunt and cousin and we are SO grateful for the time they took to drive all the way up here to let us have such a nice weekend! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!!

We got back in time Saturday afternoon to visit with some friends who were visiting from out of town. It was a fun-filled weekend!

Thank you to my sweet Valentine who is so thoughtful and makes my life wonderful! I love you!!

On the Road Again

2010-01-31T15:58:00.009-07:00

We made another quick trip down to Logan this weekend. This time it was because Bill's younger sister, Tina, was visiting from Albany, NY with her 10-month-old, Andy. Sam and Andy became fast friends and had a ball together!

Tubby Time

The boys with Grandpa

Out to dinner

A dance performance by Isabelle

Splashing in the jacuzzi

Story time with Aunt Carrie

We were even able to fit in a trip to the Logan temple Saturday afternoon. Sunday morning we woke up to a foot of snow, so we packed up and hit the road in case it got worse. Once we were out of Logan, the roads were fine and we made it back by the afternoon and didn't have to stop once! Sam slept the first two hours and we kept him busy or eating the other 2 1/2.

It was a quick trip, but so much fun!

Be Our Guest!

2010-01-25T07:59:00.011-07:00

We had a full house this weekend. My parents drove up Friday afternoon since my dad had a meeting in Bruneau, ID Saturday morning. Sam was so excited to see them and was thrilled that both Grandma and Grandpa were willing to read to him!

We all had dinner at my sister, Ann's house that evening.

Sam was in heaven playing with his cousins, Cael and Whit.

Then our friend, Nate, arrived Saturday afternoon and stayed with us and visited some other friends of his in town.

By Monday morning, everyone had gone and the house seemed very quiet. Sam had a ball with all the visitors. It was a great weekend!

I just thought this was cute.

Too Pretty

2010-01-18T10:55:00.007-07:00

We took a last minute trip to Logan this weekend. On our way home Saturday afternoon, from Logan through Benson, UT this is what all of the trees looked like. They looked so beautiful with the sun reflecting off the frost that I couldn't resist and had Bill pull over for a few minutes to snap some pictures.

Gorgeous!

Big Boy!

2010-01-08T16:46:00.015-07:00

Sam just had his 12 month check-up. We got thrown off a bit after our move to Idaho and are behind a month. He now weighs 20 lbs, 6 oz (10th percentile) and is 30 1/8 inches (40th percentile). He's pretty much just like his dad, long and lean.

He walks pretty well when we make him, but he still prefers to crawl or cruise along holding on to the furniture.

Saturday afternoon we went up to Eagle Island State Park. It was pretty deserted, but looks like it will be a really fun place for spring and summer.

Bill, scouting out good fly-fishing spots

We went for a little walk along the river, but it was so cold, we had to cut it short. We'll go back when the lake and water slides open up!

My sick boys

2010-01-01T19:29:00.007-07:00

Well, 2010 did not greet us very kindly. New Years Eve was fun enough, but the next morning was a different story. Sam still wasn't back to himself from the week before, but it was Bill who really took a beating. Poor guy looked like a walking corpse. We spent pretty much the whole day resting.

While I didn't love the extra diapers I had to change, I did enjoy how cuddly Sam was while not feeling well. He's never been a big snuggler, so it was so sweet when he just wanted to lay on my tummy and rest. I was in heaven!

Here's hoping that the rest of the year perks up!

Come and Gone

2009-12-30T15:36:00.019-07:00

There is always so much build up before the holidays and they seem so far away for so long and then BAM! they're just a memory. We had a wonderful Christmas. Since there were some gifts that we didn't want to pack with us to Utah, we had our own little Christmas a few mornings early. I surprised Bill with all of his diplomas matted and framed and he surprised me with a new camera. It's a dream!

I've had a blast experimenting and playing around with all it's neat features

Bill had to work for a few hours on Christmas Eve, but we were packed and ready to hit the road by one. Sam was a good boy and watched his little movie while I got everything together. He did great on the drive to Logan.

As always, we acted out the Nativity story with Bill's parents and his sister Angie and her family

Christmas morning was very peaceful and quiet. Sam was the only grandchild in the house and he had a ball tearing the paper off all of the gifts. He got lots of fun new toys and books.

Later that evening, we drove down to Layton for an Ellison family Christmas dinner and then on to my parents house for the night. We had a great time seeing some of our friends in Salt Lake over the next few days.

Sam's best buddy, Drew Gardiner

Dinner with our friends from NYU, the Wilson's

Sam LOVED playing with his cousins, Noah and Sloane

Bill had to drive home Sunday morning, but Sam and I stayed a few extra days, most of which were spent being sick. Sam had a couple of bad nights and I was worried about our flight home, but after being delayed about an hour, we finally made it back to Idaho. We were so happy to see Bill!

Now onto 2010!

Photo Shoot

2009-12-18T22:02:00.010-07:00

My sister, Ann, and I finally took our boys to get their pictures taken...

Not a fan of Santa

2009-12-13T09:36:00.005-07:00

We thought it would be fun to take Sam to see Santa Claus...

He felt differently.

Home:

2009-12-06T19:52:00.021-07:00

[noun] 1. The place in which one's domestic affections are centered. 2. Any place of residence or refuge.

Welcome!

Entry

Office

Family Room (Poor Sam doesn't have a stocking yet. I'm working on it!)

Dining Area

Kitchen

Mud Room

Master Bedroom

Master Bathroom

Laundry Room

Loft

Guest Room

Spare Oom (as Bill calls it)

Sam's Room

Party!

2009-12-03T20:47:00.011-07:00

So that all my sisters and their families could join us, we waited until tonight to have cake and ice cream for Sam's birthday. Inspired by my friend Kris, who makes amazing cakes, I whipped this up:

If you're noticing a lion theme in our family, you're very observant. Sam is quite fond of a little stuffed lion that he sleeps with and one of his favorite pieces of a puzzle he has, is the lion. And, of course, he was a lion for Halloween too!

My BIL, Travis (next to Bill) celebrated his birthday on the 27th and my sister, Ann (far right) will celebrate hers on the 4th. Happy birthday Travis and Annie! We were so happy to have everyone there to party with Sam!

Sam was a little suspicious of his cake at first, but I think he liked it!

Video clip soon to come

One

2009-12-02T10:45:00.005-07:00

I can't believe I have a one-year-old! If the rest of my life flies by as fast as this last year has (as I'm frequently told that it does), I'll be a senior citizen before I know it! Sam had a great birthday.

The three of us went to dinner at Smoky Mountain Pizza and Pasta

And then Sam got to take a bath with his new tubby toys

While Sam was napping this morning, I read through my journal entries the few days before and after his birth. It was such an amazing time that I can still remember very vividly. I've never felt so humble and vulnerable as when I got to hold my sweet little baby for the first time. It was the most precious moment of my life. I loved seeing Bill just melt as he held his new little son.

Life for us has sure changed since then! We are so happy to have Sam in our family and love him so much! Happy birthday Sammy!

Count Your Many Blessings

2009-11-26T09:48:00.011-07:00

Name them one by one...

My two boys

My Family

The restored gospel of Jesus Christ

Freedom

Happy Thanksgiving!