The Elhardts

Winter Wonderland

2011-11-17T15:37:00.000-08:00

We were surprised by the snow that hit Suncadia this weekend.

Warming up by the cozy fire!

Diggy and Ryan enjoying the

view from the Lodge.

Cousin Maria and Aunt Tamara decided to join the fun.

We are hoping for more snow when we go back for Thanksgiving!

Happy Halloween

2011-11-02T19:47:00.000-07:00

What's not to love...

Pumpkin patch with cousins,

Dressing up,

Halloween parties and carnivals,

Pumpkin Carving,

Caramel Apples with Grandma,

And to top it off...

Trick or Treating!

So much fun!

( Addy was Tinkerbell, Snow White, and a Queen this Halloween- a new costume with each event!)

Harvest Fest

2011-10-17T07:07:00.000-07:00

Gorgeous blue sky and colorful leaves everywhere,

Addy's first horse ride,

Mamas and babies bonding ~

Perfect day!

"I'll love you forever,

2011-09-30T15:43:00.000-07:00

I'll like you for always,

As long as you are living,

My baby you'll be."-Robert Munsch

Happy Birthday to our sweetest and most cuddly baby boy.

This past year has been pure joy! You are the most perfect addition to our family. We can't wait to see what year two brings. Thank you for being the easiest and happiest baby ever.

We love you Griffin John.

Summer Highlights

2011-09-13T15:46:00.000-07:00

Rock and Roll 1/2 marathon in June

Afternoons at the beach

Playing in the sand at the river

Celebrating Grandma and Papa's 60th birthday and

40th Wedding Anniversary

Two of the most beautiful weddings and fun get away weekends

Lots of trips to Suncadia

Loving the pool.

And best of all we welcomed three new babies into our family!

Brodie John

Evan Michael

And Jackson Henry

We are hoping the nice weather sticks around a little longer.

We aren't ready for summer to be over.

Welcome

2011-07-14T08:12:00.000-07:00

Jackson Henry Parker

Born July 10, 2011

7 lbs 2oz.

You are so loved baby boy!

Sink or Swim

2011-07-12T14:23:00.000-07:00

Addy has two goals this summer. Learn to swim and learn to ride a bike. Swimming has been a bit difficult since she is scared to death to swim with a life jacket, noodle, or any type of flotation device that is not her Mom or Dad.

Most of her pool time has been spent holding onto the side or playing on the stairs.

I decided it was time to implement some tough love or Addy would never learn to swim. I put her life jacket on her and we swam out to the middle of the pool. I then let go of her for a couple seconds, mind you she had a life jacket on, and she would scream on the top of her lungs... yes it was quite a scene. Then when I would grab her she would laugh so I knew I wasn't traumatizing her too bad. I continued this torturous activity for several minutes. Addy would scream then laugh, scream then laugh, and so on. It took about two days of torture then I tried a new technique... I told her there was a magic fairy on the side of the pool watching her swim. She needed to swim to the wall to get her three wishes... I gave her a little push and she kicked her way to the wall. We played this game for several minutes and all of a sudden she was swimming independently (with her life jacket).

Swim Addy Swim!

P.S. Addy started formal swimming lessons this week and has loved every minute of it.

Now, we need to work on goal #2- riding a bike with training wheels.

I'm All, I'm All, I'm Alright!!!!

2011-07-01T08:49:00.000-07:00

It's a beautiful day, not a cloud in sight, so I guess I am doin' all right!

So my all time favorite country music star is coming to Longview!

It is very rare to get any good entertainment around here...

I know she may have hit her peak back in the late 90's but I could not be more excited to see her show.

Now the question is... who wants to join me???

You know you are the second child when...

2011-06-08T21:18:00.000-07:00

you have to wear your sister's old yellow flower sun hat,

your Mom lets you eat a sugary pop-cycle at 8 months old,

and you are already feeding yourself dinner.

We love you Griffin John.

Lake Chelan

2011-05-26T13:09:00.000-07:00

We celebrated Diggy's bachelorette party in Chelan last weekend.

We stayed at our favorite house in Wapato Point.

It was so fun to have two nights away from home with my girls.

(BTW Matt did great with the kiddos at home.)

We can't wait for the wedding in July.

Congrats Diggy and thanks girls for such a fun weekend.

Rockstar Ronan

2011-05-10T21:09:00.000-07:00

Ronan Thompson

May 12, 2007- May 9, 2011

I grew up in the same community as Ronan's mother and I have been faithfully following her blog as her son Ronan has been fighting against Neuroblastoma Cancer. Yesterday, that fight came to an end. I can not even imagine the pain she is feeling from losing such young and beautiful son. If there is any good to have come from this tragic and awful situation it is helping others to realize not to take a single day for granted. All of the sudden Addy's double ear infection, Matt being away at school, dishes in the sink, and laundry on the couch do not seem so bad. My heart breaks for this family. There is no reason a family should have to go through this kind of heart ache. Ronan and his Mom have taught me to hold my babies tight and be thankful for each day we have together.

Home Away From Home

2011-05-03T15:26:00.000-07:00

We signed the papers for our new house in Suncadia.

The cabin crew (Jody, Mike, Emily, Drew, Matt, and Myself) went up last weekend to celebrate. We had to sleep on blow-up beds and there was no furniture but we still had a great time toasting our new house.

The boys have been talking about this for years but we still can't believe the dream is becoming a reality. There is going to be lots of great memories in this house.

P.S. It will be ready to rent out soon. We will offer a friends/family rate so let us know when you want to use the house.

Easter Fun

2011-04-25T21:00:00.000-07:00

Addy is figuring out that holidays are so much fun!

Messy egg art,

surprises from the Easter Bunny,

yummy breakfast,

egg hunts,

and playtime with cousins.

What's not to love?

Happy Easter!

Shower for Diggy

2011-04-25T20:39:00.000-07:00

Sunny Saturday + Best Friends = Perfection

We had such a great time celebrating our Diggy!

Can't wait for the wedding in July.

Griffin says- "Hurry up Raleigh! Come out so we can play!"

How Does Your Garden Grow?

2011-04-25T15:18:00.000-07:00

Matt got some seeds from a friend who works in the seed business.

So, instead of buying starts like we usually do...

we are attempting to grow them ourselves.

Matt and Addy had fun planting them...

and they are BOTH enjoying watching them sprout up!

Nap Time

2011-04-11T14:33:00.000-07:00

Oh, how I love nap time, ESPECIALLY when I can get both kids asleep at the same time. YES, I love spending time with my children but a hour or two of freedom to do something glamorous like dishes or laundry is quite nice as well. On Sunday, Addy, Griffin, and I finished our normal bedtime ritual and I decided I was going to treat myself by watching the "Social Network" instead of doing my afternoon clean up routine. Just as I got cozy on the couch, pillow, blanket, and all, I heard cries coming from Griffin's room... Uh oh I couldn't help feeling disappointed that my relaxing afternoon was over.

I wasn't going to give up... I had a little chat with Griffin boy and I told him that if he was going to be awake he had to sit on my lap and watch the movie with me. I wasn't sure how this would go but Griffin once again proved he is the best baby ever, he just sat and cuddled with me for the entire movie... no rocking or shushing required just a binkie and his Mommy. I've decided he's allowed to skip nap and be my movie date any day.

We didn't quite make it to the end of the movie, we both decided a nap was what we needed... and it ended up being a perfect way to spend a Sunday afternoon.

Glasses Girl

2011-04-05T13:57:00.000-07:00

Addy has been seeing a pediatric opthamologist since she was four months old due to the birth mark above her left eye. Dr. Landon has been closely monitoring her vision and at Addy's last appointment she determined that Addy needs to be wearing glasses all the time. I wasn't sure how a three year old would handle wearing glasses but surprisingly she has been very cooperative through out the entire process.

Here is Addy getting fitted for her glasses~ they're blue with butterflies and sparkles on the sides.

Checking herself out in the mirror.

I am not sure if she is more proud of the sucker or her new glasses.

After the appointment, we headed to the park for a celebration.

EVERYONE wore their glasses!

Growing Up

2011-03-24T19:31:00.000-07:00

Everyone says it, I feel like I have been warned a thousand times, but it's one of those things that you don't believe it until it happens to you...kids grow up way too fast.

Addy went to her first dance class on Monday. She was invited by a friend to attend the class. I was so excited for her, she loves to dance, and we had been talking about ballet all week. For some reason as she walked into the class I began to get tears in my eyes...

I was overwhelmed with pride, excitement, and a little bit of nervousness for my baby girl.

But Addy was ready, she had been waiting for this day all week!

She sat with the kids during introductions and did great during warm up activities. As the kids began to dance you could tell Addy was feeling very lost. The kids were moving quickly and Addy did not know what to do. Her big eyes were scanning the room for her friends and you could see the panic in her face. I waited for a moment hoping she would regain her composure and begin dancing again. But instead she saw me watching in the window. Part of me wanted to stand back and make her finish the class but another part of me wanted to rescue her. As she stood in the middle of the dance floor with her arms stretched out seeming to say help me... I am scared! So I did, I walked into the room, (with my boots on... sorry dance teacher), scooped her up and held her on my lap for the rest of the class. I was so excited for her to begin this new chapter in her childhood but then as it approached part of me didn't want to let her go. I am guessing this is the way it is going to be through out parenthood- a constant pull between wanting the kids to accomplish new things but not wanting them to grow up too fast. I know there will be days in the near future when she runs into class and never looks back but for today I will hold my baby a little bit longer.

P.S. She told me she would try dance class again when she is four.

Speaking of growing up too fast check out Griffin Boy!

He is still the happiest, most easy going baby.

Addy told me the other day, I am so glad we found Griffin.

I am too, Addy Mae, I am too!

Happy St. Patrick's Day

2011-03-17T07:45:00.000-07:00

Addy announced last night...

"Now that I am three... my new favorite color is GREEN!"

We'll see if she becomes as obsessed with green as she has been with yellow this past year.

Needless to say, Addy is excited to wear green today.

{And Matt already has dinner in the crockpot... can't wait!}

Happy Birthday Addy Mae!

2011-03-09T21:21:00.000-08:00

We celebrated Addy's birthday last weekend.

It is so hard to believe she is 3 years old.

Addy chose to have a princess party since she loves dressing up. I found this great shop on etsy that had printable decorations, invitations, thank you cards, cup cake toppers, and more. Everyone was told to wear royal attire to the party. The kids also had fun decorating magic wands and crowns to add to their outfits.

And of course Addy requested yellow cupcakes!

A kiss and a

hug from Prince Parker.

We continued celebrating Sunday with a trip to the Oregon Zoo. We had not been since last year on her birthday weekend~ so it's kind of a fun tradition that we have started.

We finished up the celebrating on Monday, Addy's real birthday, when she got to open the present from us~ a new doll house.

Happy Birthday Addy Mae! You are such an incredible girl.

Thank you for bringing so much joy into our lives these past 3 years. We love you!

Funny Kiddos

2011-03-01T14:08:00.000-08:00

Someone thinks his sister is pretty funny...

(Warning! Turn down your volume!)

And one more video, just for fun!

Whistler Weekend

2011-02-23T14:39:00.000-08:00

Fun, fun, fun~We had such a great time on our Whistler trip.

Here are few pics of our wonderful weekend:

Matt getting ready to hit the slopes the first day.

The weather was gorgeous-a total highlight of the trip!

It snowed a lot the first night and SUN the rest of the time.

We stayed right at the base of Blackcomb at the Le Chamois Hotel. It is in a perfect location with great rooms, which we loved sharing with the Sleasmans.

Olympic Rings in the Village

Griffin was such a good little traveler...

and he loved spending time with his buddy Liam.

The babes were perfect angels during the wedding.

Jessi was a gorgeous bride.

Griffin spent most of the weekend in the Bjorn.

Family Pic

( Minus Addy, who stayed home with Grandma.)

Love these girls!

Congrats Chad and Jessi.

Thank you for letting us be apart of your special weekend.

Sending Lots of Love Your Way

2011-02-14T06:16:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentine's Day!

And a special Happy Birthday to Daddy Matthew!

We love you!

Kids On the Move

2011-02-09T20:52:00.000-08:00

Well kind of ...

2011-02-07T14:41:00.000-08:00

It has been difficult being back and work and keeping this blog up to date but I wanted to share a few pics of the basement project.

Matt tiled the fireplace... no more brick.

The TV will eventually be mounted on the wall above the fireplace.

New carpet and tile downstairs.

(Lots of room to dance and play soccer)

Addy loves her little playhouse (aka closet).

Even though it is not done we have been loving the extra room downstairs. It is nice to have the carpet in so we feel like we can use the space... more to come soon.

Back to Work

2011-01-06T14:50:00.000-08:00

After three wonderful months of being on our own schedule, filled with play-dates, walks to the park, trips to the library, and "lounging" around the house in our PJ's ~ my maternity leave is done. Since I worked in the afternoon last year, I have not had to use an alarm clock in quite a long time. Getting up at 6:00 this week and getting myself and both kids out of the house by 7:30 has been no easy task. (Especially this morning when Addy was sick and threw up all down the front of herself on the way out to the car.) But thanks to both Grandmas and a good friend who has a daycare, the kids have been well taken care of this week.

{I feel a little bit guilty saying this but part of me is really enjoying being back at work.}

But don't get me wrong... I also love being done by noon and being home with these guys... especially during nap time ;) working half time is the best of both worlds!

Christmas 2010

2010-12-28T13:33:00.000-08:00

We spent Christmas Eve at our house with Matt's side of the family.

Addy and Santa Baby

(Yes, Addy is still wearing the yellow tutu)

Grandma Becky and Santa Griffin

Great Grandma Betty and Great Grandpa Terry

An attempt at a family picture.

Christmas morning Addy woke up to find the her jumper (aka trampoline) that she has been asking for along with her bumble bee pillow pet that she has been wanting for months.

We had a quiet Christmas morning at our house

and then headed down to my parents for our traditional Swedish pancake breakfast.

More presents and playtime with Caroline!

We missed the rest of the cousins. They were home with the flu :( We are going to have a "Christmas Do Over" on New Year's day.

{Notice Addy switched to her Snow White dress for Christmas-she refused to wear her actual Christmas dress.}

Matthew and

Dad preparing Christmas dinner.

We were once again spoiled by all our family and friends.

We are so very blessed.

I hope Santa was good to you all! Merry Christmas!

Holiday Cheer

2010-12-21T08:09:00.000-08:00

We have been busy celebrating the season.

The stockings are hung by the chimney with care,

the house is decorated, the tree is trimmed,

and our favorite present is already under the tree.

Addy has been enjoying her gifts from Grandma and Papa. We celebrated early so Uncle Joel could be with us before he was deployed for Afghanistan.

This past weekend we got to get dressed up two nights in a row which is a record for this family lately. Friday we attended Matt's holiday party at the Nines. {Thanks to our wonderful babysitters.}

Then on Saturday we got to celebrate this cute couple.

Congrats Lisa and Dom!

The kids had a Christmas party at church on Sunday

and Santa visited all the good boys and girls.

Monday was a Christmas lunch with my best friends from high school.

It was so fun to catch up

and play with all the babies.

We have had such a great December. We are now looking forward to celebrating the big day. I can't wait to see Addy's face Christmas morning!

May your holidays be filled with Love and Joy!

The Elhardt Family

Yellow Tutu

2010-12-10T13:31:00.000-08:00

Well Christmas has come early at our house. Addy's cousins cleaned out their dress up clothes and Addy has hit the jackpot. She got a huge bag of princess dresses and tutus but she really got excited when she found this beautiful ballet costume. If you know Addy you know that she LOVES yellow or should I say she is obsessed with yellow. She loves anything and everything that is yellow. So to find a ballerina outfit that is yellow is a very special day!

I am a little worried we will never be able to get it off of her body.

Apparently it is quite comfy sleeping in a scratchy tutu.

Here she is singing and dancing in her new favorite outfit.

I am not sure Santa is going to be able to top this gift.

Bake Off 2010

2010-12-06T14:10:00.000-08:00

Several of my college friends and I have made it a tradition to get together the first weekend of December to bake, craft, and spend the weekend getting in the holiday spirit. It is also time to renew our friendship since many of us don't get to see each other as often as we would like. Once again this year we had a fabulous time. I don't think there was a pause in the conversation for the entire 48 hours that we were together.

It was a little harder to get our baking and crafting done this year with so many adorable babies to hold... but we loved it.

Rothie brought the twins and Spry flew up from L.A.

{very impressive}

We also had to make time to cheer on the Cougs in the Apple Cup.

The craft table

and some of our yummy creations.

I am already looking forward to this weekend next year.

Love you girls!

So Thankful...

2010-11-24T13:49:00.000-08:00

for these little munchkins that always brighten my day!

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!

Brr It's Cold Outside!

2010-11-24T13:02:00.000-08:00

Addy has been so excited about the snow!

But I think she loves the excuse to drink hot chocolate the most.

New Dining Room

2010-11-22T08:01:00.000-08:00

We have had major construction going on in our house since March. It has mostly been in the basement but last week we got new sheet-rock (to cover some wood paneling) in our dining room. My friend Andrea inspired me to get a little crew together and paint the room while Matt was away at school.

Thank you Tom and Becky (Matt's parents) for all your help!

And Addy was also a super helper!

I got the room put back together before Matt got home and

he was quite surprised!

It didn't last long though...first thing Sunday morning the room was turned back into a construction zone. Matt installed two new lights and began working on the baseboard trim. We are hoping to have it all done by Thursday so we can host Thanksgiving.

Basement update! The drywall is done. We have picked out carpet, paint, and tile. My dream is for it to be done by Christmas but not sure if that will happen.

My Little Helper

2010-11-14T10:36:00.000-08:00

Addy loves to help in the kitchen.

Last night the warm, soapy, water looked really inviting...

I left the kitchen for a second and look who got into the sink.

We got bath time and dishes done at once.

P.S. She has been wearing that pink sparkly dress every day for several weeks. She is now able to dress and undress on her own, so half way through the day clothes are off and she is running around the house in her "Princess Dress."

God Loves Griffin

2010-11-14T10:31:00.000-08:00

"I love you right up to the moon-

2010-11-14T10:23:00.000-08:00

and back." -Sam McBratney

Every night Addy asks Matt to take her outside to see the moon.

Depending on the clouds, they can't always see it, but it is always a special part of the bedtime routine.

Trick or Treat

2010-11-01T07:14:00.000-07:00

It has been fun watching Addy learn about Halloween and creating new holiday traditions with our family.

This was the first year she could really help with carving pumpkins. She was a little confused and thought when we were all done she was going to be able to wear the pumpkin around like a hat or a mask... but after a few tears we got it figured out.

She was thrilled to see it lit up with a candle.

So proud of her pumpkin but

Griffin is still the cutest pumpkin!

We headed out to Steph and Steve's for trick or treating.

It is always fun to see how the kids dress up.

Ellie won the prize for the most creative costume...

a completely home-maid (by Ellie) peacock.

Time to get some candy! Let's go!

I think Addy is getting the hang of the holiday thing...

and she is loving it.

Halloween Sneak Peek

2010-10-25T07:44:00.000-07:00

We got to try out our Halloween costumes on Sunday.

Our church had a party for the kids.

Addy went as Mickey Mouse

and Griffin was a pirate.

Addy never met a cupcake she didn't like!

Happy Halloween Everyone!

Seattle

2010-10-25T07:11:00.000-07:00

A quick trip to Seattle to meet these little cuties

Avery and Emma

Griffin got to meet his girlfriends

and we got to celebrate Caroline's 2nd birthday!

Caroline loves Baby Griffin.

I think he was her favorite part of the birthday weekend.

Happy Birthday Sweet Girl!

Fall Fun

2010-10-19T20:51:00.000-07:00

Happy Fall! We hope you are enjoying the season.

Sip and See

2010-10-11T14:08:00.000-07:00

A few of my college friends hosted a "Sip and See" party for Griffin.

Gunnar, Easton, and Charlotte all came to "See" Griffin...

the rest of us did the "Sipping."

Thanks girls for such a fun afternoon.

Puget Island Farmers' Market

2010-10-10T12:43:00.000-07:00

We drove out to Auntie Steph's house last Friday to buy some of cousin Ellie's Jellie. She has had her booth the last few years and always seems to be quite successful.

The pumpkin patch opens and hayrides begin next Friday so we might have to make another trip out to the island.

Tiny Tumblers

2010-10-03T11:10:00.000-07:00

Addy started a gymnastics class on Saturday mornings. The class is for 2 and 3 year olds so adult participation is required. I have been a little busy with Griffin so Matt has offered to take Addy to class the past two Saturdays. I think they have both been enjoying it.

Balance beam

Trampoline

Matt is demonstrating the handstand kick.

Crab walk

I look forward to Saturday mornings and watching these two participate in class. I am not sure how much longer I can convince him to take her but I am enjoying it while it lasts.

Buddies

2010-09-29T07:39:00.000-07:00

Griffin is such a lucky guy to already have so many great friends.

Best friend and sister Addy Mae.

Caden and Gunnar

Cousin Michelle

Ellie, Jake, Megan, and Parker

Griffin can't wait to meet cousin Caroline later this afternoon. And he is looking forward to meeting Charlotte, Easton, Clara, Parker Lilly, Baby Bartheld, and the Kocher twins very soon.

Week 1

2010-09-26T11:00:00.001-07:00

Griffin is officially one week old today! We have had such a great week adjusting to our new family. Matt took most of the week off and we have had lots of visitors, phone calls, and emails from family and friends. Yummy meals and gifts have been delivered. We feel so blessed and loved by everyone. Thank you!

Griffin could not be a better baby. We are a little worried that it is too good to be true. He sleeps all the time. He hardly ever cries and if he does he is very easy to sooth. We just hope that we can get him on a good schedule and he continues to be a happy baby.

Addy is so proud of her brother.

She loves to tickle him and give him kisses.

She holds his hand

and she is a good helper to her Mama.

Matt left this morning for his week long UW residency. He will be home Thursday night. Let's hope we have another great week.

Griffin John Elhardt

2010-09-20T19:32:00.000-07:00

Born September 19, 2010

7.6 pounds

21 inches long

Welcome to our family. We love you so much!

Sitting & Waiting

2010-09-18T09:00:00.000-07:00

We can't really go anywhere...

who knows when the baby is going to get here.

We sure hope it is sooner than later!

Baby boy's official due date is September 28th so he isn't late but Matt leaves for his week long UW residency on the 26th. It would sure be nice have the baby before he leaves... either that or baby needs to wait until Daddy Matthew returns on the 30th. I just wish we knew... this sitting, waiting, and wondering is getting difficult. Anyone have any good tricks to bring on the labor?

Home-maid Chicken Noodle Soup

2010-09-18T08:30:00.000-07:00

I don't know about you...

but this weather is making me crave soup for dinner.

My sister Steph makes chicken noodle soup from scratch all the time for her family so I thought I would give it a try. I roasted my own chicken using The Barefoot Contessa's recipe. Matt informed me that I roasted it upside down (oops, I am still learning).

Then the next day I used Tyler Florence's recipe for chicken stock.

Addy helped me make the noodles.

BTW I found this great blog that showed me how to make the noodles.

I can't wait to make lots more of her recipes.

Then I added carrots, onions, celery, chicken, noodles, and lots of yummy seasoning.

It tasted perfect on a cold, wet, fall evening.

Some Elhardt Updates

2010-08-26T20:55:00.000-07:00

The contractors are done for now in the basement. Matt is going to do the electrical work and then they will be back to drywall.

The crib and dresser have been moved into baby's room and I've washed and put away all his clothes.

We got a new car... well new to us... but it's still kind of fun.

Finally and definitely the most exciting news, Addy has slept two nights in a row with out a binky! She has a slight case of pneumonia and sucking on the binky was making her cough worse so I convinced her she did not need it anymore. So far so good... let's hope it lasts even when she starts feeling better.

Sunriver 2010

2010-08-25T14:00:00.000-07:00

I have so many fond memories of Sunriver. We used to go as a family almost every summer growing up as a child. My parents would pack all four kids into the Vanagon, load up the bike rack, and have a week of nonstop fun. My parents are celebrating their 40th wedding anniversary this September so to honor them we decided to do an old fashioned family Sunriver vacation. We found a five bedroom house that was big enough to hold the whole family and we spent 6 days making memories.

There was lots of bike riding (except if you are 8 mo. pregnant).

Playing at the park.

Relaxing and enjoying the pool.

We loved the hot tub at our house.

But most of all just enjoying each other's company.

Happy 40th wedding anniversary Mom and Dad.

We look forward to more Sunriver memories soon!

Celebrations

2010-08-09T06:00:00.000-07:00

We love weekends where there is a celebration that allows both Matt and I get to see our college friends.

We spent Saturday celebrating this happy couple over in Yakima.

Matt got to spend some quality time with the Sigma Nu boys

and I loved catching up with their wives (The Sigma Du's).

Then on Sunday we drove back through Seattle to celebrate Rothie and the upcoming arrival of her twin girls.

And nothing makes me more happy then spending the afternoon with my college girls. So fun to get to see so many great friends in one weekend. Thanks for all the fun celebrations.

We're Making Progress

2010-08-02T15:03:00.000-07:00

The contractors have been here for a week working on the basement.

They installed a bigger window to let more light in.

They are also finishing up framing, rebuilding the stairs, and knocking down a wall in the dining room.

We've been working upstairs on baby brother's room.

We still need to move the crib over from Addy's room and purchase a dresser but things are moving right along...

{Only 8 more weeks until my due date}

Freezer Jam

2010-07-28T16:30:00.000-07:00

Growing up my Mom always made home-maid jam. It is so much better than what you can buy at the store. I decided to try to make some last weekend and it is really not that hard.

You just have to have fresh raspberries.

I got these from the local farmers market.

Wash the berries.

Mash them up... but leave them a little chunky.

Then follow the directions in the Certo box.

Let it sit out for 24 hours and then put in the fridge or freezer.

Yum!

Playmates

2010-07-27T09:52:00.000-07:00

The summer has been flying by with so many fun playdates with our cousins and friends.

Cousin Michelle is here from Georgia.

Owen

Clara, and Andrea were here from Montana.

Maddie and Baylie joined us at Lowes for a little building project.

We finally got our fourth of July picture taken... a few weeks late.

We have been loving playing with Jack

Mikalah,

and baby Gunnar.

We are looking forward to more fun in the sun this week.

Parker Family Picnic

2010-07-22T06:57:00.000-07:00

The Parker Family Picnic was in Cathlamet, WA this year where my sister and her family lives. It was also Eagle Fest weekend which is very exciting for this tiny little town... parade, street venders, live music, fireworks, wooden boat show, etc...

Parker and Addy watching the parade.

The other kids were all in the parade.

The kids playing at the beach Saturday night.

Everyone that made the picnic... we were missing a few cousins.

Wagon rides before breakfast.

Bike ride around Puget Island.

It was so fun to see everyone and spend the weekend together.

We look forward to seeing you all again soon.

Bryan and Lisa's Wedding

2010-07-19T09:10:00.000-07:00

We celebrated Bryan & Lisa's wedding last Friday night.

The weather was beautiful and the setting was gorgeous.

We could have not asked for a better night.

Mom and Dad posing with the bride and groom.

The cutest flower girls ever.

Addy did a great job considering we did not practice this at all.

She got a little help from cousin Megan.

Belly shot {29 weeks and counting}

Cheese!

Ellie and Matt were dancing partners all night.

Congrats Bry and Lisa!

We hope you are having a fabulous week in Chelan.

Lake Fair

2010-07-15T07:34:00.000-07:00

Summer sisters met in Olympia this week and we got to experience an Oly tradition called Lake Fair...

carnival rides, vendors, and fair food.

We loved having Delane and Parker with us this week.

Addy was just barely tall enough to ride a few rides.

She loved both the little cars and boats.

We finished off the day with a sweet treat. Don't worry Addy had some help from Mom to eat this giant ice-cream cone.

Thanks girls for a fun day!

(P.S. Addy kept asking, "Where's Diggy?")

Fun in the City

2010-07-14T08:01:00.000-07:00

We had so much fun in Seattle visiting Leslie and Caroline and enjoying the city.

Friday night was so hot that the little kids loved the waiting pool at Greenlake and the big kids jumped in the lake.

Saturday, Leslie had to work but the rest of us headed downtown to the Seattle Aquarium.

Addy checking out the jellyfish.

"What's that?"

After naps we packed a picnic and headed down to Magnuson Park.

Playing hide and go seek

"I'm going to get you!"

Sunday morning we headed to the Seattle Center to see the Space Needle up close and spend a couple hours at the Seattle Children's Museum. So much fun! Thanks Les for letting us take over your house for the weekend. Everyone had such a great time.

Piano Girl

2010-07-08T19:38:00.000-07:00

Matt's Mom teaches piano lessons and Addy loves to sit at the piano and sing with her. I think she has been missing spending her afternoons at Grandma's house. She decided to have a little piano time at home. Hopefully she has inherited the Elhardt side of the family's musical abilities.

Fourth of July Weekend

2010-07-05T20:03:00.000-07:00

We spent Saturday morning enjoying the festivities at Lake Sacajawea.

Addy learned all about parades this weekend,

pop-its,

and sparklers.

We played some lawn games

and celebrated our country with great friends and family.

Happy Birthday USA!

Harstine

2010-07-02T12:40:00.001-07:00

Diggy's family has a cabin on Harstine Island and going there is one of my favorite summer time activities. Addy went back to camp for two more nights so I took advantage of a little freedom and met the girls at the cabin.

Court and Charlotte relaxing in the sun.

Easton found a comfy place to nap.

BFF's

Dinner down by the water courtesy of Cabe.

Diggy built the fire and

we had smores for dessert.

I can't wait to do it all again with Addy in a few weeks.

Weekend Recap

2010-06-28T08:16:00.001-07:00

We have been enjoying this nice weather...

working and playing outside all weekend.

Friday was a little hotter than Addy was used to but no need to worry if you get hot just take your clothes off and hop into your water table. Addy was quite proud of herself. She did this all on her own.

Matt and Addy went to a free class at Lowes to build a Monster Truck. Good thing Dad was there because I could have never figured out how to put it together. Addy was quite proud of her final product.

Saturday afternoon we hosted a wedding shower for my soon to be sister- in- law Lisa.

Then finally on Sunday I got to go see the Lion King with Steph and her kids. Ellie decided at the last minute to go to camp so I lucked out and got her ticket. The show was amazing and definitely recommend it if it comes to your area.

Addy left for church camp yesterday with Grandma and Papa. She will be back this afternoon but it feels weird to be home with out her. Matt and I actually enjoyed a dinner date out last night.

We hope you all had a great weekend!

Wed. Playdate

2010-06-24T08:40:00.000-07:00

Can you believe how much they grow in two years?

Addy is clearly not a baby anymore! We had so much fun playing with Baby Easton and Baby Charlotte yesterday. Addy is learning all about babies hopefully it will help prepare her for her brother.

P.S. It is so fun to be off for the summer and get to see my girls in the middle of the week. See you again next Wednesday!

Baby Gunnar

2010-06-23T07:51:00.000-07:00

One of my oldest and dearest friends had her baby boy last Sunday.

Gunnar arrived two weeks early to surprise his Dad on Father's Day.

Congrats Lindsay and Ryan!

I can't wait for our little guys to be friends.

Two Very Special Birthdays!

2010-06-19T21:53:00.001-07:00

Happy Birthday Papa Terry and Oompah!

June 19th is a special day in our family.

We could not be there to sing to you Grandpa Terry so here is your birthday song.

We hope you both had a great day!

Happy Birthday.

Cabin Getaway

2010-06-17T07:11:00.000-07:00

Addy and I took a mini-vacation to our friends' cabin near Lake Cle Elum WA. Rachel, Carrie, and their little ones that are close to Addy's age spent two nights at the cabin celebrating the start of summer vacation.

Addy and Jack playing in the sand at the park.

The kids enjoying the beach

and the pool.

Addy liked riding on Jack's battery powered quad.

We went into Suncadia for the day to play at the playground,

walk on the trails,

and see the fish in the pond.

Addy loved throwing fish food into the pond and watching the fish jump up to eat it.

Thanks Rachel for inviting us to the cabin! We had a great trip.

We can't wait for more playdates this summer.

Congrats Matthew

2010-06-15T07:06:00.000-07:00

Matt received word yesterday that he was excepted to the UW executive business school. He will begin his MBA in the fall (most likely the weekend baby #2 is born). The program is designed for working professionals that do not live in Seattle so he will only be on campus three to four days a month. The rest of the work is done online or at home. It is going to be a crazy fall with new baby and new challenges but we could not be prouder of you Matt! UW is going to have make room for a Cougar to join the program.

Summer Time

2010-06-13T20:05:00.000-07:00

School is out and we are ready to play!

Let's hope this nice weather sticks around for awhile.

Quick Trip to Seattle

2010-06-13T17:39:00.001-07:00

to meet Charlotte Grace Juhl.

{She is such a sweet calm baby.}

Catch up with the Seattle girls,

and celebrate Diggy's recent engagement to Ryan at this yummy restaurant:

Even though it was short, it was so much fun to see everyone!

Cannon Beach Round 2

2010-06-06T20:29:00.001-07:00

We headed to Cannon Beach again this weekend to spend time with our friends Drew, Emily, Mike, and Jody. Cannon Beach is always fun but if you are lucky enough to go on a sunny 70 degree day it is AMAZING.

Addy was obsessed with collecting seashells for her bucket.

Jody and Em sitting by the fire and watching the sunset.

Addy enjoying her first smore of the season.

Checking out the shops downtown

and exploring the tide pools.

They boys took turns flying a kite

and building a GIANT sand castle.

It was such a fun weekend. We did not want to come home. Addy keeps asking to go back to the beach house. Thanks Drew and Em for the invite. We look forward to more memories in C.B.

P.S. Here is a short clip of Addy writing her name in the sand.

Baby Easton

2010-06-01T08:00:00.000-07:00

We drove up to Olympia on Monday to meet Baby Easton.

It is so exciting that so many of my college friends are having babies.

It was so good for Addy to be around a newborn since she is going to have to get used to one very soon. Addy was checking out his little toes.

Here I am practicing holding two babies!

Congrats Brambles! You have a beautiful baby boy.

Whiting Reunion

2010-05-31T07:45:00.000-07:00

We had a wonderful weekend spending time with Matt's Mom's Dad's side of the family. Matt's Mom did a ton of work to put the whole weekend together. Thanks again Becky!

Matt's Grandpa Joe is in the middle of the picture with his brothers and sisters.

Becky's Aunt Helen is 101. She is the oldest Whiting sibling.

Uncle Buck is 96. They are the only two siblings still alive.

Matt made three turkeys using his is favorite recipe for the family gathering Saturday night.

The current Whiting clan.

We hope to see you all again soon!

Cannon Beach

2010-05-23T20:02:00.001-07:00

We just got back from another great Mom, sisters, and cousin weekend at the beach. I think this is about our 8th time we have done this trip but each year it seems to be even more fun.

We usually rent this house.

It is not even a block to the beach and just a short walk to town.

We love to walk down to Haystack Rock during low tide

and hunt for sea creatures,

run on the beach,

dig in the sand,

and attempt to build sandcastles.

It is fun to spend the afternoon in Seaside

walking on the boardwalk.

The little ones love the carousel

and the park!

And back to the beach we go!

We look forward to many more trips to Cannon Beach.

A Birthday Shower

2010-05-16T21:56:00.000-07:00

On Saturday we got to celebrate both Lindsay's birthday and the upcoming arrival of her baby boy. Her little one is due on the fourth of July! It was so fun to see lots of old friends at the shower and then we were able to continue celebrating at the birthday BBQ. The weather was great so it was perfect for hanging out outside. Happy Birthday Linds! And hurry up baby Gunnar we can't wait to meet you!

Dress Up

2010-05-11T06:27:00.000-07:00

I have been collecting dress up items for awhile and putting them away in a box for when Addy gets a little older. I was a little hesitant on showing them to her right away because I was worried she would want to "dress up" all the time and not be able to differentiate when it was appropriate or not.

Well, Addy went to a birthday party a few weeks ago and discovered the world of dress up!

She especially loved the sparkley purple high heals that Maddie's big sister Baylie let her borrow.

So when we got home I showed her the box that I have been collecting. She was excited to continue to dress up that evening.

Then she discovered more fancy costumes at her cousins house.

(Parker couldn't resist a kiss for Addy in her beautiful outfit.)

Dress up seems to be a her new favorite activity.

Happy Mother's Day

2010-05-09T19:53:00.000-07:00

We are so lucky to have such amazing and supportive Moms.

We love you very much. Thank you for all you do for us.

It's a...

2010-05-03T17:21:00.000-07:00

boy!!!!

We can't even believe it! Matt and I were both thinking it was going to be another girl!

Matt couldn't stop grinning through the whole ultrasound.

We are both so thrilled.

Here I am at 18 weeks.

My belly has really popped out this week.

Matt was gone for a week for work and when he got home he hardly recognized me and my giant tummy.

We can't wait to meet our new little guy.

Congrats

2010-05-02T20:43:00.001-07:00

to Bryan and Lisa on your engagement!

We are so excited for you guys

and can't wait to celebrate your special day.

Basement Remodel

2010-04-23T16:31:00.000-07:00

Do you remember our basement? If not here is a picture from Addy's birthday to remind you. It had lovely mirrored tiles on one wall, shag carpet on another, and wood paneling everywhere else.

It was a real beauty!

Well, do to some recent water damage we have decided to gut the whole thing and start over. The demolition crew came this week and tor out everything down to the studs and this is what we are left with...

laundry room/bathroom

We plan to tile over the brick to give it an updated look.

We discovered this lovely mural hiding under the mirror tiles.

We plan to frame in this room to make a office/guest room.

The goal is to have a new cozy basement by the end of the summer.

Let's keep our fingers crossed we get it done before baby number two shows up.

Big Girl!

2010-04-16T07:11:00.000-07:00

Cousin Megan spent the night last weekend so we brought Addy's toddler bed up from the basement for her to sleep in. Ever since Megan left, Addy has been sleeping in what she calls "Mae, Mae's bed." It actually has been an easy transition. Addy has not tried to get out of it and she is still sleeping through the night. She even asked to go to bed last night because she was so excited to sleep in her new big girl bed. I guess it is time to move the crib out and get it ready for the new baby!

Babies, Babies, Babies,

2010-04-13T06:21:00.000-07:00

I can't wait to meet all these babies!

Court and Cabe are due in May. Rothie and I are due in October!

A Few More...

2010-04-12T06:43:00.000-07:00

My sister just sent me these Easter pics so I had to add a few more.

This last one is my favorite!

Happy Easter

2010-04-05T19:45:00.000-07:00

Nana and Addy dying eggs.

So proud! Addy is showing off her work.

Easter morning.

She loves this silly bunny that sings and dances.

Cousins!

We missed you Caroline. We are looking forward to seeing you later this week.

We hope you all had a great Easter!

Montana Trip

2010-04-01T15:08:00.000-07:00

Addy and I had such a great time visiting the Felton Family.

We loved meeting baby Clara

and playing with Owen.

We spent a lot of time going for walks,

playing outside,

and enjoying yummy treats!

Addy thought wagon rides were the best.

Owen and Addy checking out Clara.

Sweet baby girl!

We spent one morning at the Missoula Children's Museum. Addy wasn't sure about the dino dig. She decided to dig from the outside but Owen loved it!

They both had a great time exploring the water table.

But the highlight of Addy's trip was the carousel ride. She could have stayed on it all day. Thank you Andrea and Brett for being such great hosts. We look forward to seeing you again soon!

A New Addition

2010-03-24T21:09:00.000-07:00

We are excited to announce that Addy is going to be a big sister. Baby number two will be joining our family the end of September or early October. I just had my 12 week ultrasound today and everything looks good as far as his/her development. We can't wait to meet this little peanut!

NYC Trip

2010-03-22T09:24:00.000-07:00

We had such a fun time checking off all the must see sights around the city. We saw so much in three days and completely lucked out with the gorgeous weather. I can't wait for another trip to the Big Apple. Check out our web album for more pics and info about our trip.

NYC

2010-03-17T08:10:00.000-07:00

via

Matt and I are off for a little weekend trip to New York City. Matt has to go for work but I thought it would be a fun opportunity to tag along. His meetings don't officially start until Sunday so we are looking forward to a few days of sight seeing and absorbing all this city has to offer. I am looking forward to eating at some yummy restaurants and seeing a Broadway show or two. Please let me know if you have any suggestions of places to eat and things to do.

A Day at the Zoo

2010-03-10T06:30:00.000-08:00

Addy's actual birthday was on Sunday, March 7th. We decided to have a family day and head down to the Portland Zoo. Addy had not been to the zoo since last summer so it was so much fun to take her to see all the animals. She has also been asking to ride a train so we thought this trip would be a perfect opportunity to fulfill her train riding dreams.

Addy and Mom with the lions in the background.

Family shot with the elephant.

All aboard the zoo train.

Pretty zebra!

Addy got a birthday kiss from the seal!

On our way out we stopped at the gift shop to get Addy a little something for her birthday. It was so funny to see what she picked out. She was adamant about getting a green plastic cup with a zebra on it and stuffed monkey that could hang around her neck. It was such a fun day, I definitely recommend the Portland Zoo if you are ever in the area.

Addy's Party

2010-03-09T06:38:00.001-08:00

Our little cupcake Addy had her two year old birthday party last Saturday and since she LOVES cake we decided to do a whole cupcake themed party.

Jamie sent the cutest little banner in the mail for an adorable decoration.

We played pin the candle on the cupcake.

Addy and her cupcake balloon.

Mom with Addy in her cupcake dress.

Taking time to smell the flowers.

Nana made both regular and a giant cupcake.

Happy Birthday Addy.

We hope you had a great party!

2 Year Pics

2010-03-01T08:27:00.000-08:00

Thanks Coffey for doing such an amazing job.

We will treasure these pictures always.

Here are a few of our favorites.

Happy Girl

2010-02-22T08:03:00.000-08:00

Matt brought Addy a little present back from Texas and she could not be more pleased.

Her very own pink cowboy boots!

The stars on the side actually light up when she walks.

The problem is we are never going to be able to get these things off her feet.

Thanks Daddy Mafew.

ABCDEFG...

2010-02-15T12:46:00.000-08:00

next time won't you sing with me!

Happy Birthday Daddy Matt

2010-02-13T10:35:00.000-08:00

or Daddy Mafew as Addy likes to call you.

We hope you have a great day.

We love you very much!

Puzzles

2010-02-05T08:53:00.000-08:00

Addy has just started to enjoy putting puzzles together. She used to always require help and but now she is realizing she can do it all by herself... only if Daddy would realize this too!

Addy Update

2010-01-28T09:01:00.001-08:00

So Addy has been on her blood pressure medicine for over a month and we have seen little improvement to her birthmark. The doctor has decided that we need to double her dose to see if we can get it to shrink more. We go back to OHSU in a few weeks to discuss other options if this does not work. The good news is she is getting better at going to the doctor. She used to scream the whole time the doctor was in the room regardless if they were touching her or not. We went on Tuesday to get her blood pressure checked and she stood on the scale, let the doctor listen to her heart, and take her blood pressure with no tears. This is BIG improvement.

Other exciting news around here is that she is showing interest in potty training! Woohoo! It started last weekend at her cousins' house, seeing her cousins go was a big motivator. Let's hope it continues. I have also started giving her a potty treat whens she goes (two M&M's:) and she gets very EXCITED for this. I don't want to get my hopes up but she has already used her potty twice today... so we'll see!

Addy is almost two and boy is she letting us know. She is talking a lot putting several words together. She is full of personality but if things don't go her way she let's us know about it. She has a cold this week so the tantrums have increased. I am hopeful as she starts to feel better she will be more cooperative. Other than that, things are great. Matt has been traveling a lot this week so we are looking forward to a quiet weekend at home.

Birthday Money

2010-01-25T13:19:00.001-08:00

My group of college friends decided to do something different this year to celebrate our birthdays since we are all turning 30. We are giving each other $25 and since there are 12 of us it ends up being $300! We decided it would be a fun way to celebrate our birthdays and it allows each of us to pick out something special from our friends.

I used my birthday money to buy this little guy.

I can't wait until it comes in the mail.

Thanks girls!

Birthday Weekend

2010-01-18T07:52:00.000-08:00

Matt and I headed to Seattle this weekend to celebrate my 30th birthday.

We decided to stay at Hotel Monaco in downtown Seattle.

If you ever stay there, ask for a gold fish in your room.

They deliver them upon request.

It was fun to have a little friend swimming around in our room.

We spent the afternoon being Seattle tourists.

Even though we have been there hundreds of times, we always love the energy, sights, and sounds of the Market.

We met Diggy and Ryan for the wine hour at our hotel.

They also had free Taro card readings...which said 2010 is going to be amazing!

Cute pregnant Court came to pick us up for dinner.

We had reservations at Via Tribunali's on Capital Hill.

I was absoulutely shocked when Andrea and Brett walked in!

They were in town for Brett's dental conferene.

It was such a fun surprise.

Andrea, myself, Lisa, and Jamie

Michell, Court, Rothie, and Coffey

We could not resist this photo op!

Peek-A-Boo!

Thanks everyone for making the night so special!

My Next 30 Years

2010-01-12T06:42:00.000-08:00

I think I'll take a moment, celebrate my age

The ending of an era and the turning of a page
Now it's time to focus in on where I go from here
Lord have mercy on my next thirty years

Hey my next thirty years I'm gonna have some fun
Try to forget about all the crazy things I've done
Maybe now I've conquered all my adolescent fears
And I'll do it better in my next thirty years

My next thirty years I'm gonna settle all the scores
Cry a little less, laugh a little more
Find a world of happiness without the hate and fear
Figure out just what I'm doing here
In my next thirty years

Oh my next thirty years, I'm gonna watch my weight
Eat a few more salads and not stay up so late
Drink a little lemonade and not so many beers
Maybe I'll remember my next thirty years

My next thirty years will be the best years of my life
Raise a little family and hang out with my wife
Spend precious moments with the ones that I hold dear
Make up for lost time here, in my next thirty years
In my next thirty years

~Tim McGraw

Who's Counting?

2010-01-10T09:11:00.000-08:00

Addy might not be accurate but she is starting to get the idea.

She is also starting to recognize letters, shapes, and colors too.

{More videos soon!}

Beer Battered Fish

2010-01-04T19:07:00.000-08:00

Matt found a recipe for home maid deep fried halibut that was to die for. It was probably not the best way to start out the new year diet but boy were they tasty.

Thank you Grandpa Terry for the yummy fish!