The Edgel Family

Great Deal!

2012-02-11T11:17:00.001-07:00

Hey Everyone!

If any of you know of anyone that is getting married soon and looking for a wedding dress here's a great deal: (www.modest-weddingdress.blogspot.com)

Dress for Sale

Modest dress with beautiful bead-work and cap sleeves
NEVER BEEN WORN
Size 10
$450 or best offer
Contact Jen at 801-368-7503, or leave a comment with your contact info below

Canadian COLD!!!

2012-02-07T07:10:00.001-07:00

In January we found ourselves once again on our way to Canada! I love that we've been able to take so may trips up there lately! (Three times in the last seven months! Before these trips, the last time we were up was back in the summer of 2009). This January was also the first time in over two and a half years that our whole family was together, with quite a few new additions!

When we were up in November it snowed a tiny bit, but when we were there in January it was ABSOLUTELY FREEZING! Like -30 Celsius (-22 Fahrenheit)! So needless to say, we didn't end up playing out in the snow as much as we were hoping.

Heather braving the cold with Elaina and Erin - The rest of us watched from within the warm house. Allison was telling us how one of the days when they were going somewhere either Erin or Elaina (can't remember who) said to Allison, "Mommy, I never want to go outside in Canada EVER AGAIN!" This definitely must have been a change from the 70 degree weather they were enjoying back home in Texas before coming up!

Dave & Mary

When Elaina was born I started a tradition making baby blankets for all my nieces and nephews. Here's Isaiah rapped in the rag quilt I made for him. This is blanket #4 (plus one I made for Gavin), and I already have two more to do by April. Hopefully switching to afternoons and cutting back on work hours will give me more time to work on these as well as finish up the current sewing project I'm working on!

Monte Monte Caballo Rides were of course a hit with all the grandkids...

...and I think Grandpa Ducky got a little worn out while the kids kept running back around for more.

Nanny M. & Papa with all the great-grandkids

Nana & Grandpa Ducky with the grandkids

Although Gavin's closer in age with the two little boys, he's old enough to want to play more and LOVED the attention from Elaina & Erin. Ring Around The Rosy (or Lo-Lo as Gavin calls it) is one of his favourite games, and the three of them had fun playing this over and over again.

Gavin didn't even seem to mind being dressed up in flowers, or being given the role of prince or baby when the girls played make-believe.

I am exited for when the boys are all a little older and to see the difference in the games they'll enjoy playing together. And although they did share toys some of the time, and had some good times interacting with each other - this was obviously not one of those days for Gavin

Grandpa and Deanna came down a few days before the wedding and it was great to spend time with them. Here's Grandpa and Isaac at their hotel pool. My Grandpa has a wood shop in his garage that Jared and I were able to check out this past summer when we went up for a visit, and he's made some very beautiful gifts for us and the grandkids. He came with trains he had made for each of the boys, and jewelry boxes for Elaina and Erin. I'll have to get a picture of Gavin and his new "choo choo".

Jared, Mary, Isaiah, Elaina, Dave, & Erin enjoying the hot-tub

Two of Gavin's words are "up" & "down". He was happy to be the one in charge of this game as the girls followed his command to go up and down over and over again - I wish I had gotten a video!

The whole clan with Grandpa and Deanna

Girls outing for manicures!

Saturday morning the bridesmaids and flower girls met up at Heather's place to get our hair done and get ready - and enjoy more Tim Bits for breakfast. You can't go to Canada without stopping by Tim Horton's at least once, and we definitely got our fill of Tim Bits this trip!

Wedding Photos after the ceremony - I can't wait to see the rest when Heather gets the pictures from her photographer!

I love this one!

Cute flower girls

Me and Allison

I love this cute picture of Gavin at the reception

The Happy Couple

Gavin went crazy when the dancing started! He LOVED spinning in circles and "dancing" with everyone

We really had a great time with everyone and are glad we could all be together to celebrate Heather & Trevor's wedding! And we can't wait to see everyone again this coming Christmas!!!!

New Years Redo

2012-01-31T11:10:00.000-07:00

Yes, I know it's almost February, and yes I know that new year starts January 1st. But this year my New Year Resolutions are starting February 1st! At the end of December Jared and I actually had a date night at the Provo Library (how romantic!) where we sat down and made New Years Resolutions, both joint and individual goals, as well as making plans for how we would accomplish our goals. However, our plans were bIased around the assumption that by the beginning of January my work schedule would be changed and I would no longer be working nights. So when January began, the chore schedule that we made along with other things didn't work well with me still working nights. Although I've tried to keep up with my goals, January's been difficult so I decided to start fresh in February.

What I like about our goals is that they're not all necessarily things like, "exercise at least 3 times every week". Those are so easy to fail at. You miss one week and achieving the goal is shot. Instead we thought of things that we want to improve on and have goals working towards incorporating them into our lives by the end of the year. So for example, smaller steps/goals towards a healthier life-style so that by the end of the year it's just habit to exercise at least 3 times a week on average. We set big goals for the year, and each month we'll have a goal-setting date night where we set monthly goals (to help us achieve our yearly goals) as well as to evaluate how we did the previous month.

I'm excited for 2012 and all that we hope to accomplish! For Christmas we got a large white erase board that is hanging on our pantry door - where we see it multiple times each day. Here we'll record what we're working on or need to do - that month, week, or even just that day - to help us accomplish our bigger goals and keep us accountable. This was Jared's idea, and I love it. We also have a bi-weekly chore chart (because my work schedule will still sort of be 7on/7off) printed out by the white board so we remember who's responsible for what chores each day and hopefully our house will stay a bit more clean and organized!

So Happy (belated) New Year to everyone, and wishing you all a great 2012!

GOOD-BYE GRAVES!!!

2012-01-29T10:22:00.000-07:00

Only four nights of graves left and I'll be DONE!

When I first started working for IHC in 2009 it was a 7on/7off graveyard shift up at IMC. My schedule often confused people, so here's what it was:

- Starting Wednesday night I worked 7 nights in a row, 10 hour shifts (7on)
- The following Wednesday I had 7 nights in a row off (7off)
- Because it was nights, my 7on started on a Wednesday night, and ended on a Wednesday morning
- During my 7on I slept during the days, my 7off I slept at night

So every Wednesday I was adjusting my schedule - either trying to take a nap during the afternoon before going into work that night, or else trying to stay up for as long as I could after working all night to get back on a regular sleep schedule. For someone who typically can't stand taking naps (there's so much other stuff I could be getting done), sleeping during the days took a little getting used to. But eventually I got used to sleeping in the daytime, I enjoyed the people I worked with, I still had some time in the evenings to do things, and working nights was going well...until we had a baby!

After my maternity leave I did work afternoons 7on/7off (3pm-1am) for a while, but when I switched down to UVRMC in February I was back to graves. Even though Gavin was 8 months old by this time, trying to sleep during the day was a bit of a challenge. Before I would come home from work in the morning and go straight to sleep. Now I come home from work, stay up an additional four hours before putting Gavin down for a nap at 11am, and then head off to bed. Jared then comes home around 12:30 or 1:00 and we hope Gavin sleeps until he gets home. When Gavin started taking his naps later in the day (around 1pm or 2pm) this whole graves thing became alot more difficult!

Sorry...reading over that really makes me sound like a big complainer...but it just makes my new schedule sound that much more amazing!!

This Wednesday to Saturday night I will work my last four graveyard shifts (finishing up training my replacement), then starting Sunday, February 5th!, I will have the next three days off before I start training on my new afternoon shift. It'll be a great Birthday present!!!

So if you thought my old schedule was difficult to keep track of, good luck with this:

- I will still sort of be 7on/7off
- Wednesday & Thursday during my 7on I work 10 hour shifts (starting at 2pm)
- Friday, Saturday, & Sunday during my 7on I only work 4 hours (2pm-6pm)
- Monday & Tuesday during my 7on I work 10 hour shifts (starting at 2pm)
- The next Wednesday I start my 7 days off

Because I'm now considered part time I technically only need to work 48 hours every two weeks, although I am scheduled to work 53. This means if I want the extra hours they're mine, but if I want to give them away I can have someone else work the 5 extra hours for me. And there are always interns or PRN employees wanting to pick up extra shifts. Plus, I will now start getting PTO, on top of my 7 days in a row off! And if I need any more hours I can pick up available shifts during my 7 days off. It's the perfect schedule, and I can't wait to start it February 8th!!!

Thanksgiving & Christmas 2011

2012-01-27T21:15:00.002-07:00

Thanksgiving and Christmas were both spend with Jared's family down in Vegas this year. Here are some photos of our fun times! Enjoy!

Family Pictures at the Las Vegas Temple

Dinner At Olive Garden

San Miguel Ward Turkey Bowl

Thanksgiving Dinner with Family

We also had a successful Black Friday! (no pics!)

Gavin loved all the presents under our tree

Christmas Eve at Great Grandma & Grandpa's

Christmas Morning

A Year In Review

2012-01-26T09:17:00.000-07:00

Back in 2011 we did celebrate Thanksgiving and Christmas...I've just been overloaded, with no time to post about them. In both 2009 and 2010 Thanksgiving and Christmas both fell on my weeks off, but when I switched down to Utah Valley and changed my work weeks I knew I would be scheduled to work over both these holidays in 2011. Luckily this awesome girl that works my opposite weeks was willing to switch around some shifts with me so I could have both Christmas and Thanksgiving off! She's from Japan, so the holidays aren't too significant for her, and she was happy to get the holiday premiums.

We had a fun, eventful year, but after all of last years busy-ness, I am ready for a break!! (update on that soon)
(feel free to skip all this...I just wanted to document it and remember all our great adventures of 2011)

Dec. 2010:

I started working PRN (as needed) at Utah Valley while still working full time (afternoon shifts) at IMC to try and get my foot in the door somewhere closer to home

Jan. 2011:

I continued working my two jobs
My mom came for a visit mid January

Feb. 2011:

My mom and dad came for a visit mid February, and my niece Erin was able to come up from Texas with my dad for part of the time too
Celebrated my 25th Birthday - I didn't have to work, which was nice
End of February I got a full time position at Utah Valley - goodbye 45 minute commute, but I was back on graves

Mar. 2011:

No trips this month

Apr. 2011:

Jacob and Rachel came up over General Conference - I was working so don't remember if I even saw them
End of April we celebrated Jared's graduation and Easter - Mark, Patti, Janea, & Jayden came up

May 2011:

Beginning of May we took a road trip to California for our friend's (Angie and Joel) sealing
Mid May we started a six week online real estate class we had signed up for
End of May we went to Vegas for Janea's senior year awards ceremony and visit family

Jun. 2011:

We celebrated Gavin's first Birthday
Mid June my mom came for a visit
End of June/beginning on July I worked 11 nights in a row so I'd have time off for our Canada trip

Jul. 2011:

Celebrated Canada Day before going into work
Went to Beaver for a few days with Jared's family over the 4th of July
Mid July we went on a road trip to Canada
End of July Allison came to Utah with her three kids for a visit

Aug. 2011:

Went to Vegas for Jared's 10 year high school reunion
Went on our annual California beach trip with Jared's family

Sept. 2011:

No trips this month

Oct. 2011:

Mid October my mom came for a visit

Nov. 2011:

We flew to Canada for a visit
Went down to Vegas for Thanksgiving
Celebrated Jared's Birthday

Dec. 2011:

Quick trip to Vegas for Christmas (down for the 24th & 25th then back to work)

Jan. 2012:

Flew up to Canada for Heather and Trevor's wedding

We also enjoyed lots visits from Patti throughout the year, a trip to the Salt Lake Zoo, trips to BYU's free Bean and Dinosaur museums, weekly playgroup (when we were in town), story time at the library, and fun at the park! When I did have some time to spare I worked on Family Videos, updated our blog, and worked on some sewing projects. It was a great year and we are so grateful for all the opportunities we had to spend with family and for all our fun trips and visits from others!

Back in November...

2012-01-04T11:16:00.002-07:00

We had a really great trip up to Canada! (I had to get this post done before we leave for Canada again in another week and a half!) This time we flew, which is definitely an adventure with a 17 month old. It was Gavin's first airplane ride, and I think by the end of it he finally started to realize that the tiny "arpas" in the sky that he's obsessed with, are the same things that we few on.

Okay...so I couldn't resist! Gavin loved playing with this pink vanity and Nanny M and Papa's house.

When we were little my Dad would always give us "monte monte caballo" rides. We'd sit on his feet, leaning against his shins, as he bounced us up and down as if on a horse singing, "Monte, monte caballo! Caballo se llama Ducky. Ducky's legs go up and down little ______ he/she...flies....OFF!" as he'd flip us up over his shoulders. Gavin was finally old enough to really enjoy "monte monte caballo" rides, and each time he was flipped off over my Dad's shoulders he'd run right back around and hop back on for another ride.

Jared and I got to meet our nephew, and although Gavin was a little unsure about sharing his toys with Isaiah at first, they soon warmed up to each other as well.

There was lots of story reading, puzzles, and kisses...

And of course we couldn't go home without a trip to the Southland Leisure Centre. I'm sure ever one in the place found it quite comical to see eight adults hanging out in the kiddie pool. But those two little ones were almost just as entertaining as any of the water slides or the wave pool. But with so many adults around we were able to sneak off to some slides and the hot tub.

Gavin was obsessed with this little wooden chair at Nanny M and Papa's house. In the mornings he'd pull it out and sit and watch the news with Papa, or just push it all around the front room until he needed to sit down for a break.

When we were up in Calgary this past summer my Aunt and Uncle were on a trip to Hawaii, so they hadn't seen Gavin since last Christmas when he was only six months old. It was fun to see my cousins again as well as Aunt Joan and Uncle Kavin. They brought play-do over for Gavin, which he enjoyed, but he kept trying to eat it so I think we'll hold off on the play-do until he's a little older.

Although it put Jared on everyone's bad list, he was really hoping to see some Canadian snow. He's only been there in the summer time, and wanted a chance to experience some Canadian coldness. Although it wasn't much he did get his wish, and Gavin had fun with the snow too.

I was starting to feel a bit sick, so I stayed and rested while Jared went with Heather, Trevor, and my parents out to Elbow Falls. I'm always impressed by the beauty of the mountains and parks when we go back to Canada for a visit. I never really thought much of it or appreciated how beautiful it is, until we moved away and I wasn't surrounded by it all the time.

We left just before Jared's 29th Birthday, so we celebrated with family before leaving.

Our last night there Gavin was quite the entertainer. He put on quite the show and just soaked up all the attention as we laughed at this little cutie (which only increased his silliness to get us to laugh more).

I love Gavin's expression in this picture. Gavin kept trying to climb up onto the chair, and my Uncle Kavin was holding it so it wouldn't fall over as he climbed up...which didn't go over well with Gavin. If Gavin noticed Uncle Kavin touching "his" chair with even just one finger, he'd give him this look and push his finger away. He wanted no help from nobody!

Although we had a great time while in Calgary, the trip home was another story. Gavin got sick and had a pretty nasty diaper rash right before leaving to head home, and lets just say diaper rash + diarrhea + all day on planes/in airports = one sad baby and lots of annoyed people on an airplane! The next few days this is what our front room looked like as we tried to let Gavin's bottom dry out enough to heal.

I Believe in Santa Clause

2011-12-24T04:33:00.000-07:00

I Believe in Santa Claus

Imagine Santa.

What is he like?

He wears red.

His hair is white.

He comes in the night.

He loves little children.

He wants us to be good.

And he brings gifts.

Now imagine Jesus.

What is He like?

He wears red.

His hair is white.

He comes in the night.

He loves little children.

He knows we are good.

And he brings gifts.

Santa Claus is a symbol of Christmas.

The symbols of Christmas can remind us of

the true meaning of Christmas.

The symbols of Christmas

remind me of Christ.

So, I believe in Santa Claus.

I love this simple story by Diane G. Adamson and the beautiful illustrations by M. Chad Randall. We were given this book last year for Christmas, and Gavin has enjoyed reading it with me and looking at the pictures that go along with each description given of Santa and Jesus.

I love everything about the Christmas season - the Christmas lights all over town, seeing the mall all decorated with Santa there, listening to Christmas music, putting up and enjoying our own decorations, giving and receiving gifts, reading Christmas stories by the tree, egg nog, yummy food and treats - but above all this I love and am most grateful for what this Christmas Season represents.

This year I've been reading and studying the four gospels and the life and ministry of our Saviour, Jesus Christ. The New Testament Institute Manuel covers the events of Christ's life in chronological order, shows maps and pictures of important places, and gives helpful insight and explanations. I have learned so much, but more importantly my love and gratitude for my Saviour has increased. I am grateful for all my many blessings, grateful for my Saviour and His atoning sacrifice, specifically for me and for each of us. I am grateful for a Heavenly Father that would send His son, willing to go, so that we can return to His presence. I know that Christ and Heavenly Father knows and loves each of us so personally!

So above all the excitement and fun of opening Christmas gifts, visiting Santa, the Christmas lights, music, and decorations everywhere, I'm grateful to be able to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ and reflect on all the many gifts I have been blessed with.

Merry Christmas!

18 Month Update

2011-12-18T08:01:00.000-07:00

With an active 18 month old constantly wanting our undivided attention, I feel like I haven't had the time to post and actual blog (other than LOTS of pictures) in a while. So obviously as you can see Gavin is as cute as ever, but pictures just aren't enough to sum up his entire cuteness and adorable personality. He's changing so quick, and it's strange adjusting from calling him my little baby to a "boy".

Gavin's accomplishments at 18 months:

Gavin has 12 teeth - his front 8, and 4 molars
Is in the 9th percentile for his weight
Knows that a puppa (puppy) says, "Ruff! Ruff!"
Knows that dinosaurs say, "Raawww!"
Knows that Santa says, "Ho! Ho!" (glad we got this one down before Christmas!)
Usually knows that cows say "Moo", ducks say "Ma, ma", kitties say "Meea", and horsies say "Nea"
Uses the words outside and cookie ALOT! We just finished going through a phase where "outside?" was the first thing Gavin asked for in the mornings. Now we've moved on to asking for a cookie each morning before even getting out of bed
When Jared leaves he always waves and says, "Bu-Bye Dada"
Says and points to Jesus when we show him a picture
When Gavin get's an owchy he says, "oww!" and comes for me to kiss it better. I love it! Immediately the pain is magically gone and Gavin announces, "abuda" (all better)
Gavin loves closing doors, (occasionally on his fingers), knocking on doors, and sliding toys under doors
Gavin folds his hands (for the first few seconds) at prayer time, and says, "ado!" (amen) when HE thinks it's time for the prayer to be over
If he puts his pointer fingers together and says, "spda" it means he wants to sing the Itsy Bitsy Spider, and he does all the actions with us
"Lo-lo" (we're not sure where that one came from) is Ring Around the Rosy, and sometimes he'll do it on his own, saying "lo-lo, lo-lo" as he turns in circles
Gavin will point out his own and others' ear, eye, nose, teeth, head, toe toe, belly button, and is getting better at chin, cheek (those sound similar and get confused), shoulder, knee, bum-bum, and mouth
Gavin blow's and gives kisses, gives "hi-fi" (high five) and "bupi" (pound it), waves bye-bye, and still screams when he wants something he doesn't know how to ask for.
Gavin's other words include: all done, cheese, toe-toe, coat, shoe-shoe, sock, up, off, on, ligh (light), hot, wow, is a hello (its a phone), poo-poo, and diaper (I'm sure I'm missing a few here...but these are the most common)
Gavin loves reading his stories, but announces "all done" when he's ready for a new activity.
Lately Gavin has started coming up to me when I'm trying to do something on the laptop and says, "all done", while trying to close the lid so we can play
We're still working on learning please and thank-you, and that you don't always get your way. We give Gavin short 30sec to 1min time outs when he does something he knows he shouldn't, and he's really good at sitting still in his "time out spot" until the alarm goes off, and then will give us a hug or kiss before going back to play
He likes to test his limits to see what he can get away with. The other day I was sweeping the kitchen and I kept reminding Gavin not to step in the pile. That didn't stop him from inching closer every few seconds and stopping to look at me with his mischievous smile to see how close to the pile I would actually let him get. Or when I asked him to give me back my hair brush he kept holding it out to me, then pulling it back quickly and taking a few steps backwards with that same silly smirk, testing how long he could go before he REALLY had to give it back
It's amazing what Gavin is learning from just watching us; things that I don't even know how he learned. It's crazy what little sponges children are! The other day I was cleaning the bathroom and the Q-tips were out where Gavin could reach them. I turned around and Gavin was walking around holding a Q-tip in his ear!
He loves to help out with the laundry. His laundry basket is right next to his change table, and after we change him out of his PJs or out of his clothes, he's the one in charge of dropping his dirty clothes into the laundry basket below. When I do laundry he helps me push the laundry basket to the washing machine, then gets to climb up onto a chair and drops the clothes into the washer as I hand them to him. Granted it takes alot longer, but it keeps him happy and is just so cute.
Gavin LOVES nursery (almost too much). His first week he didn't even bother to say good bye to us - he just headed straight for the toys. Then last week when I took him out during sacrament meeting he recognized the door to the nursery room and started screaming even more because he wanted to got to nursery RIGHT NOW! That same Sunday we left early because I was still feeling sick, and when I went in to take Gavin home he was distraught about having to leave early and screamed all the way home.

That's about all I can think of for now! He's cute, fun, (frustrating at times), but we love him oh so much! He's still not a great eater, but he's been doing alot better since we realized he's been drinking more than twice as much milk as he should be. He loves his milk, but it makes him not hungry for food, so we're trying to get him interested in drinking more water during the day. We're excited for Christmas this year since he'll be a little older and more interested in opening presents than he was at 6 months! He's been really good with our Christmas tree, and only sometimes takes ornaments off. He's not too fond of Santa this year (other than in books or waving from a distance), but one day we did get close enough to give him a high five!

We love our Gavin, and watching him grow and discover the world around him!

Pictures of our Cutie!

2011-12-16T15:09:00.001-07:00

Back in October my Mom came to Provo for a visit. I love that she enjoys photography so much, because it means we get lots of great pictures! Here’s just a few of many.

It’s almost become a tradition to stop and say “Hi” to Buddy after every trip to the park. I wonder what will happen when we move and there’s no Buddy living across from the park?

We went to the duck pond to feed the ducks and take advantage of the warm weather

We had fun at the park

I LOVE! LOVE! LOVE! all these cute pictures in the leaves!

Bath time and playing

Trick or Treat

2011-12-02T12:06:00.003-07:00

Up until about Halloween we were being pretty stingy on how much sugar/sweet we’d let Gavin have (pretty much none), but for Halloween we figured we’d let him enjoy the whole experience…candy included. Once Gavin discovered suckers, he we in heaven. What more could a 16 month old, who LOVES sticks ask for…a stick with something sweet and sticky on the end!

We didn’t get a chance to make Halloween cookies this year….

But we did carve pumpkins

Help Mommy make my Halloween costume…

And wear it around everywhere the week before Halloween

Decorate our front door with cobwebs and Mr. Skeleton

Saturday night was our ward Trunk or Treat and Jared and I had fun making decorations the night before for our car. Gavin went as a king and Jared and I were his loyal subjects (hmmm….sound about right)!

Like I said – Gavin loved the suckers!

Gavin loved getting candy almost as much as he loved handing it out

We also went out Trick or Treating on Monday. Gavin didn’t understand that we weren’t going in to visit people, and would walk right in like he owned the place when people opened their doors! This one home had their front window open and there was a guy sitting inside on the couch with a black mask on. The window was right at Gavin’s level and he kept staring in, unsure what to think about the masked man. Let’s just say… Gavin is NOT a fan of masks!

2011-10-13T09:00:00.001-06:00

Life

2011-10-11T16:18:00.006-06:00

Now that I’ve finally updated the blog about all our fun summer activities, I haven’t felt like there’s been a whole lot exciting to update you all on. But life is busy but going well. We got back from our California beach trip in August, and spend most of the rest of the month enjoying the end of warm summer weather at the park and out for walks. We also finally decided to replace the carpet in our condo. Our neighbors did theirs and it looked so great that we decided to get their help and do it as well.

Janea started at BYU in September, and although she’s been busy with freshman life we get to see her every so often. It reminds me of when Allison and Mike lived in Provo while I was at school and how they’d have me over for dinner, and I’d get to babysit Elaina for them. Now Janea’s the sister at college with the married sibling and nephew. Other exciting news… Jared’s brother got back from his mission the end of September. He was up here this past week visiting some friends, and we were able to spend some time with him and Gavin was able to meet his Uncle Tyler. Two years ago Jared and I dropped him off at the MTC just after we found out I was pregnant, so Tyler was the very first person to know we were having a baby and now they’ve finally met. And of course the past few months we have also enjoyed visits from Grandma!

Work is going well, although I am anxious to not be working nights any longer. Right now we are looking into the possibility of me cutting back to part time, and working afternoons rather than nights. It would be a pretty big financial sacrifice for us, but both Jared and I think it would be a good – we’d see more of each other, have the same sleep schedule, and I wouldn’t be so tired. But we’re still just looking into this for right now.

Next week my Mom is coming for a visit and we’re excited to see her. She’ll be here for a week, then just a few weeks after she leaves we’ll be heading up to Canada for a visit. It will be Gavin’s first time on a plane, so I’m excited and a bit nervous about how that will go with this little boy that NEVER wants to sit still for longer than three minutes.

So now that I’ve bored you with all of that, here are some pictures (I’m sure what you were REALLY interested seeing):

Attempting to get a picture of Grandma and Gavin…what a goof!

Gavin’s first trip to the zoo

Gavin is such a big help (or tries to be)…I hope this last 15 years from now

In spite of the days when he refuses to eat, throws his food all over the floor, screams when it’s time to leave the park, and all the other tantrums that he throws as an almost two year old, I LOVE THIS KID! He is just so cute and lovable and adventurous!

Notice the big bruise on his forehead? It seems like when ever one finally goes away another one takes its place. That’s what you get for diving head first down the slides!

This picture totally reminds me of my niece Elaina when she was learning to walk at Shuswap Lake. She found a pink bucket and would walk around with it on her head.

Mission Beach Trip 2011

2011-09-28T11:15:00.001-06:00

This year was our third annual Edgel family beach trip. Jared’s family has rented a beach house at Mission Beach in San Diego for the last three years, and it’s so fun spending time with family and relaxing on the beach. This year Gavin was actually old enough to do more than just sleep on the beach, and although the waves were still a little scary he had a blast playing in the sand. Get ready for a ton more photos!

Class of 2001

2011-09-23T12:47:00.001-06:00

This summer Jared had his TEN year high school reunion. It was fun getting a tour of his high school and hearing all the different stories. Alot of the tour was knew to for the graduates as well, since there have been a ton of renovations and additions made to the school in the ten years since he graduated from Atech – Advanced Technologies Academy.

Jared kept commenting on how even though everyone’s changed in ten years, get them all back together in their old high school and nothings changed. The same social interactions still existed, the same clicks were still there.

When we first arrived in Vegas the night before his reunion, Jared went to the garage and pulled out all his old yearbooks. Of course he was going through to make sure he’d remember peoples names, but I also got to hear all the stories about different people during high school. It made me a little nostalgic as well, so when we got back to Provo I had to go dig up all my old yearbooks!

Obsessed with Sticks!

2011-09-23T08:28:00.001-06:00

For those of you who don’t know, Gavin is IN LOVE with sticks! Each time we go out for a walk or to the park he manages to get at least two or three back home and stashed away in his toy bin. When it got to the point where we were finding them in ever room of the house, IN our bed, in Gavin’s high chair, stepping on them and hurting our feet, etc. we decided to instigate a new rule: STICKS BELONG OUTSIDE!

Gavin can play with his sticks all he wants outside, but once we get to the front door we ask him to give us his sticks so we can go inside. He’s getting better at this and sometimes it only takes two attempts before he reluctantly hands over his loot of sticks. Other times its not as easy and I’m sure our neighbours have all heard Gavin wailing as we take his sticks away. He’s a sneaky one though, and occasionally he still manages to sneak a stick or two past us.

The other day we faced a bit of a dilemma… For dinner we went out to Panda Express (so yummy)! We were just starting to eat our meal when I noticed the very confused look on Gavin’s face. Any guesses?? Jared and I were eating our Chinese food off of chop STICKS! I’m sure Gavin was thinking what hypocrites we were, or at least wondering where his set of sticks were. We grabbed some chop sticks for him to play with, and hope he won’t remember this next time we tell him to leave his sticks outside!

Trousdale’s Visit to Utah

2011-09-22T13:53:00.004-06:00

After arriving home from Canada, I jumped right back into another week of work, and the week after that Allison came for a visit. Of course the first thing we had to do was go out for dinner at Cafe Rio!

Erin making Gavin laugh at Cafe Rio

It was really great being able to spend so much time with Allison and the girls…and of course I was super excited to meet my new nephew, Isaac! He’s such a cutie! Gavin and Isaac are exactly two weeks shy of a year apart, and it’s hard for me to remember that Gavin was this same age when Allison met Gavin for the first time on our trip to California a year ago. I forgot how tiny new babies are!

Gavin was a little less impressed with Isaac at first…and was more absorbed in watching what Elaina and Erin were doing. He eventually did warm up to Isaac though!

We spend one morning up Provo Canyon at Bridal Veil Falls, where we had a picnic for lunch. It really is so beautiful here, and Jared and I need to start taking advantage of all the things there are to do around Provo while we are still here. The kids had fun playing in the water at the bottom of the falls, and Elaina and Erin had fun finding sticks for Gavin.

We tried to make sure to get lots of pictures of all four of the grandkids together for my parents, but do you know difficult it is to get a one, three, and five year old to all smile and look at the camera and make sure the two month old is not toppled over or crying? NOT EASY! I’m putting in a few of the attempts along with some good pictures so you can understand what an ordeal this really was!

After lunch and a nap for Gavin, we took the kids to this water park near our place. Isaac wasn’t such a fun of the water, but the the girls loved playing on the water park and Elaina even went down the big slide with me a few times.

We also enjoyed an afternoon on Temple Square

We had such a great time with you and can't wait to see you all again some time!

Road Trip to Canada – Part 2

2011-09-13T15:08:00.012-06:00

After another long day of driving we finally made it into Alberta and on to Nana and Papa’s place in Calgary. I love how beautiful this drive is through the gorgeous Canadian Rocky Mountains!

It was almost bed time for Gavin by the time we got to Calgary, but we still let him blow out the lamp before he went to bed. This has been at tradition since I was a little girl. Whenever we spent the night at Nana and Papa’s, Nana would light her old kerosene lamp and we would get to blow it out before going to bed. Gavin was a little confused and is still just learning how to blow, so maybe we’ll give it another try when we come up for our next visit in November! I'm glad this tradition is carrying on to the next generation.

We were in Calgary during the Stampede, “The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth”! It’s a huge deal for ten days during the beginning of July when the entire city goes western. Everyone wears jeans and cowboy boots to work, even in the office buildings down town! And there are free Stampede breakfasts all over the city each day. They’re sponsored by different companies or groups, and usually have live music. Some also have petting zoos and pony rides. Here’s Gavin at his first Stampede Breakfast.

Of course we also had to make it down to the Stampede Grounds while we were there! We went with Heather and Trevor and despite the heat had a fun time. We saw the animals, went to the Super Dogs show, played games and won prizes, and ate yummy carnival food.

Gavin & Aunt Heather

At first Gavin thought the cows were giant puppies! We also saw pigs and piglets, baby chickens, sheep, and some other animals.

Trevor paid for Gavin to play some games. He loved this one where you grab a duck out of the water as it floats by and get whatever size prize it indicates on the bottom. Gavin was more interested in splashing in the water than grabbing out ducks at first.

Here’s Gavin with his loot

Potato on a stick and frozen bananas! Jared and I also tried out the deep fried cheese cake…definitely not my favourite!

So maybe were were a little lame by not going on any rides while we were at the Stampede, but it was still a fun day! Maybe next time Gavin will be old enough to enjoy the chuck wagon races or some rides!

We also went swimming at the South Land Leisure Centre – a place I remember going all the time while growing up in Calgary. It was a little noisy for Gavin, but he loves the water and still had a fun time.

Jared is just as much a kid if not more so that Gavin, and made sure we had fun going down some of the bigger slides while Aunt Heather played with Gavin.

We were able to visit some friends while in Calgary. We met up with Pamela at our old elementary school and played at the park. We’re glad we were able to get together!

Andrea also took Gavin to the park near Nana’s place quite a few times

While Gavin played with Nana and read stories, we were able to go do some fun things without a baby around, which is definitely nice every once in a while!

Of course we had to stop by Peters’ Drive-In for a milkshake

Gavin helping Nana water the flowers

Before leaving we had to stop at a Tim Hortons for lunch and some Timbits!

More fun at the park!

Splash pad near Nanny M’s place

Four Generations

Thanks again for such a wonderful visit, and for always letting us stay at your place! We can’t wait for another visit in November!

Road Trip to Canada – Part 1

2011-09-09T12:33:00.005-06:00

People thought we were crazy to go on a 20 hour road trip to Canada, and even more crazy to do it with a one year old! But Jared and I both love road trips, and we’re teaching Gavin young to enjoy them as well. (or at least trying – some days were better than others)

We spent two days driving up to Kamloops, British Columbia to visit my Grandpa and Deanna, a day driving from Kamloops to Calgary, and another two days driving from Calgary back to Provo.

Here’s Gavin at the US/Canadian border. It was about a 20 minute wait so we let Gavin get out of the car and play on the grass for a while. Notice the American and Canadian flags? We thought it was appropriate for the dual citizen in our family!

The first thing we did after crossing the border was to find the nearest A&W for some poutine!!! It’s French Canadian – French fries with mozzarella cheese curds smothered in gravy – and oh so delicious!

Our time in Kamloops was wonderful and it was so great to see my Grandpa and Deanna, and for them to meet Gavin. I loved seeing my Grandpa’s wood shop where he’s made lots of toy cars and trains, as well as beautiful bowls, jewelry boxes, pens, etc. I’ll have to post some pictures of the car and train he made when Gavin was born! Deanna also helped me out with lots of quilting and sewing questions that I had and showed me lots of the beautiful quilts she’s made. We loved being able to come for a visit, and thanks for such a wonderful time!

This is the house where my Mom grew up

Of course we had to visit a park!

Apparently my Mom and Aunt Joan used to play at this park when they were little.

Gavin loved the pool despite the FREEZING cold water

Grandpa and Deanna’s place as a beautiful view of Kamloops.

Here’s Grandpa showing Gavin the view

Out for a walk

Thanks again for such a great time! We can’t wait for another visit.

Sometimes I love Baby Einstein…

2011-09-09T10:29:00.006-06:00

Right now Gavin in happily sitting in his high chair watching Baby Einstein while I put in a load of laundry, mopped the kitchen floor, and am now attempting to update the blog. Some times it works to keep him occupied, but other times when I plug in Baby Einstein Gavin insists on me watching it with him; and he doesn’t let me sit on the couch or do anything else while we watch. We sit on the floor with Gavin in my lap. Gavin isn’t a very cuddly baby, so it’s nice having these cuddle sessions every once in a while, and I don’t mind putting off whatever it was I wanted to get done for later!

I’m only two months behind! July was a very busy but fun month: Canada Day, Fourth of July, trip to Canada, and visits from family. I had to work on Canada Day, but we still celebrated with some sparklers before I left for work.

Gavin was a little mad at first that we wouldn’t let him touch the flame

I did have Independence Day off, so we went on a short road trip down to the Edgel’s cabin in Beaver. It’s way up in the mountains, I think at like 10,000 feet, and is such a beautiful place. I haven’t been there in the spring yet, but I’ve seen pictures of all the beautiful flowers that blossom all around Puffer Lake in the spring. It was a fun relaxing trip!

Gavin discovered corn on the cob, and is absolutely obsessed with it! I think he’s had it at least three times since, and loves it.

The night of the 4th Grandma was going to stay with Gavin while the rest of us went to watch the fireworks, but we felt bad and said we’d let Gavin stay up and bring him with us, hoping he’d maybe sleep in the truck. When we found a spot to watch, we realized we were RIGHT in front of where they were setting off the fireworks, and were worried they’d scare Gavin. It turned out that the loud noise didn’t bother him and he LOVED the fireworks. He’d point up at them every time a new one went off!

We had a lot of fun up by the lake as well. Jared, Jayden, and Jayden’s friend built a pretty intense raft, we caught lots of fish in the river and ate them for dinner, and enjoyed paddling around the lake in the paddle boat.

No Fear

2011-08-30T10:50:00.000-06:00

Gavin has become quite the dare devil as of late, or maybe he just hasn't quite grasped the full concept of how gravity works (although he sure likes to test it out with his food at dinner time). The other morning I was watching Gavin play with a kitchen chair as he tried endlessly to figure out how to pull himself up on top of it. I could tell he was getting no where and went back to our room to do some cleaning while he kept himself entertained in the kitchen. Next thing I know I hear this, "THUD! THUD! THUD!" coming from the kitchen. I came back out to find Gavin standing up on the chair, rocking it violently back and forth. He's shouting with joy, clearly not aware of the precarious situation, and mad as heck when I take him off the chair. Now he's a pro at climbing up onto the chairs and I don't think there's a way to baby-proof kitchen chairs.

Gavin's other new achievement is going down slides head first! I really need to get a video of it one of these days. It just started the other day when I took Gavin to the park so Jared could figure out where the leak in our ceiling was coming from (story for another day) without Gavin getting in the way. Usually he'll take his time at the top of the slide and I have to help pull him a bit to get him going, but this time he was climbing up the steps, and before I could get around to the bottom of the slide he had plunged down head first. I was worried he would face plant at the bottom, but he slid right off onto his hands and knees, and was crawling back around to do it again. He is now also an expert at climbing up the slides as well, and thinks its just as much fun as going down them. Gavin also loves the bars at the park. There kinda like monkey bars at about my waist level that kids climb across rather than swing across. I guess Gavin wanted to try them out as well. He'll lunge out for the first bar, assuming you'll be right behind to help him along. He's actually pretty good at pulling himself along with his arms, but has a hard time keeping his legs and body from falling through.

I'm starting to think it's probably a good thing Gavin hasn't started walking yet, or who knows what other stunts he'd be trying out!

Nana’s Visit to Utah

2011-08-25T07:34:00.001-06:00

Back in May my mom was back in North America for a visit. Isaac, my sister’s little boy was born May 19th, so Nana came to meet her new grandson in Texas, then came up to Utah for a visit with us. It was a busy week full of fun, and of course my mom took a bazillion pictures! Here’s a “few” pictures of our cute Gavin from Nana’s visit.

Nana came with new books for Gavin, which they enjoyed reading together This is a cool book of BIG machines that folds out

We kept busy going for walks and playing at the park

There’s this cool water park just north of our place. Gavin wasn’t so fond of all the splashing things, but loved crawling and splashing around in the water

Having fun at home

Gavin’s First Hair Cut

2011-08-06T08:05:00.009-06:00

About a week after Gavin’s first Birthday we finally gave in and decided it was about time for him to get his first hair cut. We held off a few more days until my mom arrived in Provo for a visit, so that she could be here for it.

BEFORE Pictures: Look at all that hair!

We took Gavin up to a place in Lehi called Cookie Cutters, which specializes in children’s hair cuts. It was a fun place and Gavin loved it! He got to sit in a cool blue car and honk the horn, and watch his favourite show, The Backyardigans. The lady that cut his hair was awesome, blowing bubbles and playing with him while she cut! (Be prepared for lots of pictures…they’re all so cute it was too hard to pick just a few)

Gavin LOVED the bubbles and kept trying to eat them

A little unsure about all of this

Probably my favourite! He’s just too cute

I’m surprised he wasn’t bothered by the razor

What a hansom little guy

I love his new hair cut, but it makes me a little sad to realize how big Gavin is and how fast he seems to be growing up. Okay, so I know he’s only one but his first year seems to have flown by.

Summer Fun

2011-08-02T20:59:00.001-06:00

Despite how tiring working seven nights in a row can get sometimes, I sure do love having the next seven days off. It’s the perfect schedule to be able to go on lots of road trips and have visitors during the weeks I have off; and we’ve definitely taken advantage of every single one of my weeks off this summer!

The busyness began my last week off in May, when Jared’s family came up for his graduation and to celebrate Easter. Then my next week off we headed down to California for our friend’s sealing in the La Jolla Temple. It is such a beautiful temple! We dropped Gavin off at Grandma and Grandpa’s in Vegas on our way to San Diego, which I thought would be harder than it was. It was our first time away from Gavin for more than a day, but being able to sleep in until 10am made me wish our trip was longer than just a few days. While we spent time at the beach and with friends in California, Gavin had a great vacation of his own with family in Vegas! We were in San Diego over Mother’s Day, but I still got a Mother’s Day gift from Gavin in the morning, and we also chatted with him on Skype.

The La Jolla, California Temple

Mother’s Day Surprise (Jared’s so sweet)

Video call with Gavin – we’ve Skyped with friends and family before, but this was the first time we were on the other end which seemed to confuse Gavin. He kept looking for us behind the computer monitor!

It was then back to Provo and back for another week of work…but my next week off we were back down to Vegas for Janea’s award ceremony. She’s valedictorian, and received by far the most awards. We’re proud of her and know she worked hard for and earned every award and scholarship she got. We’re excited for her to be up in Provo when she starts BYU this fall!

Graduate 2011

The next week I had off we stayed home in Provo, and celebrated Gavin’s First Birthday! (There’s some photo’s at the bottom of this post). I then had one more week on of work before my mom came to Provo for a visit! She was here for a week and we had such a great time with her. After my mom left I worked eleven nights in a row (exhausting!), but it allowed me to take eleven days off for us to take a road trip up to Canada! Before heading to Canada we took a short three day trip to Beaver, Utah for the 4th of July. After returning home from Canada and working another week, my sister Allison came for a visit with her two girls and new baby boy!

And that brings me up to date with all our activities! I start back to work tomorrow night, but the summer is still not over and we’ve still got more planned! I’ll post about Mom’s visit, Beaver, Canada, and Allison’s visit soon.

Getting So Big

2011-06-18T11:51:00.047-06:00

I love watching Gavin explore and discover new things, and it seems like everyday he’s learning something new. He’s discovered how fun the dishwasher can be, and comes dashing into the kitchen when ever he hears it open. Gavin also loves playing with the pots and pans under the stove, and it’s not too uncommon to find random toys hiding inside the pots.

Here's some cute pictures of Gavin that I never got around to posting sooner.

Playing with cousins in Vegas

Gavin & Grandma at the zoo

Despite the mess he makes, Gavin's starting to insist on feeding himself

Gavin, Easton, & Teagan at the park

Gavin LOVES the swings

Splash pad in Vegas

What a great little helper!

Happy First Birthday Gavin!

On Gavin's Birthday he loved getting phone calls all day long from family calling to sing him Happy Birthday! I think he was a little confused why everyone kept singing the exact same song, but by about the third phone call he was excited for the singing! That evening we had friends over for Gavin's Dinosaur Birthday Party.

Gavin's choo-choo train from Nana & Grandpa Ducky

Easter Weekend

2011-04-26T15:58:00.001-06:00

This past week was wonderful. Jared’s parents came up to Provo with Janea and Jayden for Jared’s graduation and Easter. We had lots of fun celebrating, going fishing, playing Clue (it’s a whole different game with this family!), finding Easter Baskets, and just being together. Here’s some more pictures from this past week.

Congratulations to My Wonderful Husband

2011-04-23T23:52:00.001-06:00

I am so proud of Jared and all his accomplishments. Jared finished his thesis back in August, and participated in the graduation ceremony this week. I’m proud of his dedication and determination not just in completing his thesis and masters degree, but in everything he sets his mind to. Gavin and I are blessed to have such a wonderful father and husband. We love you Jared!

FYI… If you’re interested in some light reading here’s a link to Jared’s thesis entitled, "An Adaptive Grid-Based All Hexahedral Meshing Algorithm Based On 2-Refinement"”

Chasing Cars

2011-04-11T16:37:00.000-06:00

So I wonder if Jared and Jayden's cars they got for Christmas would have been as entertaining if they didn't have a baby to torment?

Gavin's Breakthrough

2011-02-24T20:02:00.001-07:00

Literally! Gavin's upper left tooth has broken through. Although he is almost nine months, he's been happy and cheerful and we weren't even suspicious of a tooth until nap time this morning. After songs and a bottle I laid him in his crib and left his room just as the tears began. These weren't the typical "I'm tired but don't want to nap" tears, but rather "I'm really in pain" tears. So instead of morning nap, we discovered a tooth and took a walk to Smith's for some Orajel.

And speaking of breakthroughs:

I got the job at Utah Valley Regional Medical Center! Since December I've been working part time at Utah Valley while still working full time up at the Central Lab in Murray (hence the lack of posts). This helped me get my foot in the door for when a full time position opened up, and the busy three months paid off! Trading in a 40 minute commute for a ten minute walk sounds good to me. I'll miss everyone at the CL, but am excited for a change and to be closer to home so I can spend more time with Gavin and Jared on my weeks on. I'll still be working 7 days on / 7 days off, 10 hour shifts, but I'll be switching back to graves. It will also be nice spending less on gas, especially with summer and higher gas prices coming up.
TranquilMed got the $40,000 matching government grant! So what ever funding TranquilMed gets (I'm not sure what the time frame is) the government will match that amount up to $40,000... meaning a possible $80,000 to help move forward with engineering and manufacturing.

I'll post more (including pictures) on my week off, but we had a great Christmas down in Vegas, fun visits from Patti and my parents, and lots of new milestones for Gavin!

Photo Update!!

2010-12-15T14:59:00.001-07:00

Rather than spend the time writing about all the things we've been up to in the past few months, I figured I'd show you instead!

Some cute pictures of GavinNow that Gavin is scooting all over the place, we've had to start b

aby-proofing our home. So where our DVDs once were....we now have this:

Just after Halloween Jared's parents and Janea came up for a visit. Here's Jared and his dad building shelves in our storage unit - a Birthday gift for Jared! Thanks so much! The storage space has been wonderful.

Heather & Trevor's visit to Utah:

Temple Square in Salt Lake City

Delicious Mexican food at The Red Iguana

Tired baby after a very long day!
Jared's Birthday Party at Burger Supreme and the Nickel Arcade

<div style="text-align: center;">Rather than spend the time writing about all the things we've been up to in the past few months, I figured I'd show you instead!</div><div style="text-align: center;">Some cute pictures of Gavin<img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_4eWFMlW-_LA/TQuzldzPSnI/AAAAAAAABjQ/Ia8FO9InYEw/s400/10-11-21e.JPG" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5551728421900339826" border="0" /><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_4eWFMlW-_LA/TQuwzO9Zs_I/AAAAAAAABio/DB0IqOYJq1A/s400/10-12-08f%2BGoing%2Bto%2Bthe%2BPark1.JPG" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5551725359899718642" border="0" /> <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_4eWFMlW-_LA/TQvJ77i47bI/AAAAAAAABjs/rI4DOoV8URs/s1600/10-11-13e%2BFirst%2BHorsy%2BRide2.JPG"><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_4eWFMlW-_LA/TQuwy9P4a3I/AAAAAAAABig/iAO98j-0fJU/s400/10-12-07b%2BCarrots.JPG" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5551725355145390962" border="0" /></a> <img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_4eWFMlW-_LA/TQuwyTjZGFI/AAAAAAAABiY/W4xWtvwiUlo/s400/10-11-11d%2BTemple%2BSquare3.JPG" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5551725343952934994" border="0" /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_4eWFMlW-_LA/TQ8LD2qXZTI/AAAAAAAABmE/x0-a1lFpozA/s1600/10-12-08a.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_4eWFMlW-_LA/TQ8LD2qXZTI/AAAAAAAABmE/x0-a1lFpozA/s400/10-12-08a.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5552669026411832626" border="0" /></a> <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_4eWFMlW-_LA/TQvJ77i47bI/AAAAAAAABjs/rI4DOoV8URs/s1600/10-11-13e%2BFirst%2BHorsy%2BRide2.JPG"><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_4eWFMlW-_LA/TQuwyN9VBjI/AAAAAAAABiQ/zkP7wQhYD6M/s400/10-10-01a.JPG" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5551725342451107378" border="0" /></a> <img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_4eWFMlW-_LA/TQusXkQkTPI/AAAAAAAABho/XL2FAdunjg0/s400/10-11-09a%2BSweet%2BPotatoes6.JPG" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5551720486534401266" border="0" /> Now that Gavin is scooting all over the place, we've had to start baby-proofing our home.  So where our DVDs once were.... <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_4eWFMlW-_LA/TREx7NuZTsI/AAAAAAAABmM/Y93DDpiEZKk/s1600/10-11-01b%2BPicking%2Ba%2BMovie1.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_4eWFMlW-_LA/TREx7NuZTsI/AAAAAAAABmM/Y93DDpiEZKk/s400/10-11-01b%2BPicking%2Ba%2BMovie1.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5553274708890832578" border="0" /></a>we now have this:<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_4eWFMlW-_LA/TQ8LDKVs8BI/AAAAAAAABls/klnDwJm3oDs/s1600/10-12-08c%2BWhere%2BDVDs%2Bonce%2Bwere.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_4eWFMlW-_LA/TQ8LDKVs8BI/AAAAAAAABls/klnDwJm3oDs/s400/10-12-08c%2BWhere%2BDVDs%2Bonce%2Bwere.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5552669014514003986" border="0" /></a> </div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">Just after Halloween Jared's parents and Janea came up for a visit.  Here's Jared and his dad building shelves in our storage unit - a Birthday gift for Jared!  Thanks so much!  The storage space has been wonderful.</div><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_4eWFMlW-_LA/TQusXP7ojKI/AAAAAAAABhg/rmyOAqfXw7U/s400/10-10-31e%2BStorage%2BUnit3.JPG" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5551720481077890210" border="0" /> <div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">Heather & Trevor's visit to Utah:</div><div style="text-align: center;">Temple Square in Salt Lake City</div><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_4eWFMlW-_LA/TQUhqrr1YfI/AAAAAAAABhM/9JxDSEDE0Pw/s400/10-11-11d%2BTemple%2BSquare4.JPG" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5549879132968804850" border="0" /> <img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_4eWFMlW-_LA/TQuwx5FDutI/AAAAAAAABiI/QxKNUmd3MBA/s400/10-11-11d%2BTemple%2BSquare8.JPG" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5551725336846383826" border="0" /> <img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_4eWFMlW-_LA/TQUhqKFHsEI/AAAAAAAABhE/STQHNuI0zWc/s400/10-11-11e%2BTemple%2BSquare2.JPG" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5549879123948056642" border="0" /> <img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_4eWFMlW-_LA/TQUhpyw9A9I/AAAAAAAABg8/e-WcrYgOYFU/s400/10-11-11a%2BConference%2BCenter2.JPG" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5549879117689455570" border="0" /> <img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_4eWFMlW-_LA/TQUhpYqpiKI/AAAAAAAABg0/ZhCIs8KVYgI/s400/10-11-11d%2BTemple%2BSquare1.JPG" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5549879110683691170" border="0" /> <div style="text-align: center;">Delicious Mexican food at The Red Iguana<img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_4eWFMlW-_LA/TQusXztefnI/AAAAAAAABhw/8A_RWFmAU-I/s400/10-11-11f%2BRed%2BIguana2.JPG" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5551720490682187378" border="0" /> </div><div style="text-align: center;">Jared's Birthday Party at Burger Supreme and the Nickel Arcade</div><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_4eWFMlW-_LA/TQuzkfP5O5I/AAAAAAAABiw/5EFPnCmNB60/s400/10-11-13c%2BJared%2527s%2BBirthday%2BParty1.JPG" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5551728405109095314" border="0" /> <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_4eWFMlW-_LA/TQvJ77i47bI/AAAAAAAABjs/rI4DOoV8URs/s1600/10-11-13e%2BFirst%2BHorsy%2BRide2.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_4eWFMlW-_LA/TQvJ77i47bI/AAAAAAAABjs/rI4DOoV8URs/s400/10-11-13e%2BFirst%2BHorsy%2BRide2.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5551752997097762226" border="0" /></a> <img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_4eWFMlW-_LA/TQuzk8h3k2I/AAAAAAAABjA/dc1Es827pXM/s400/10-11-13h.JPG" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5551728412969112418" border="0" /> <img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_4eWFMlW-_LA/TQuzkuXVxzI/AAAAAAAABi4/edRR_bLLVA4/s400/10-11-13j.JPG" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5551728409166858034" border="0" /> <img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_4eWFMlW-_LA/TQusYm_AVtI/AAAAAAAABiA/Il3gvyDLk1M/s400/10-11-13g.JPG" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5551720504445916882" border="0" /> <img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_4eWFMlW-_LA/TQusYPK3mUI/AAAAAAAABh4/jKkTiSUKl0A/s400/10-11-13d%2BNickel%2BArcade2.JPG" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5551720498053224770" border="0" /> <div style="text-align: center;">Bowling at Fat Cats</div><div style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_4eWFMlW-_LA/TQUhq2qzGMI/AAAAAAAABhU/AyeUtPgXV1I/s400/10-11-15g%2BBowling5.JPG" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5549879135917250754" border="0" /> </div><div style="text-align: center;">I think Gavin was my good luck charm...I scored 150!  My best score ever!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_4eWFMlW-_LA/TQuzlCevXgI/AAAAAAAABjI/BF_9XgQw7M4/s400/10-11-15g%2BBowling6.JPG" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5551728414566604290" border="0" /> </div><div style="text-align: center;">Thanks Giving in Las Vegas Playing with cousins<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_4eWFMlW-_LA/TQ8Ha59QrkI/AAAAAAAABk8/twnOmg1pMcU/s1600/10-11-25b%2BTeagan%2B%2526%2BGavin.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_4eWFMlW-_LA/TQ8Ha59QrkI/AAAAAAAABk8/twnOmg1pMcU/s400/10-11-25b%2BTeagan%2B%2526%2BGavin.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5552665024386870850" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_4eWFMlW-_LA/TQ8DLgQ-yFI/AAAAAAAABkU/KCVqU2EPc-k/s1600/10-11-27a%2BGavin%2B%2526%2BSofia.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_4eWFMlW-_LA/TQ8DLgQ-yFI/AAAAAAAABkU/KCVqU2EPc-k/s400/10-11-27a%2BGavin%2B%2526%2BSofia.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5552660361745713234" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_4eWFMlW-_LA/TQ8DMIzaZwI/AAAAAAAABkk/_kIJi1z63T4/s1600/10-11-24c%2BEaston%252C%2BGavin%252C%2B%2526%2BTeagan.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_4eWFMlW-_LA/TQ8DMIzaZwI/AAAAAAAABkk/_kIJi1z63T4/s400/10-11-24c%2BEaston%252C%2BGavin%252C%2B%2526%2BTeagan.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5552660372627547906" border="0" /></a>Out for dinner with Kia and Jamie! <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_4eWFMlW-_LA/TQ8DMo9UElI/AAAAAAAABk0/zjNpf-nlbDc/s1600/10-11-27d%2BDinner%2Bwith%2BJamie%2B%2526%2BKia.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_4eWFMlW-_LA/TQ8DMo9UElI/AAAAAAAABk0/zjNpf-nlbDc/s400/10-11-27d%2BDinner%2Bwith%2BJamie%2B%2526%2BKia.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5552660381259010642" border="0" /></a>Meeting Santa and fun at the Magical Forest<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_4eWFMlW-_LA/TQvJ8U_AO0I/AAAAAAAABj8/2ByFCCudwaA/s1600/10-11-26a%2BMagical%2BForest.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_4eWFMlW-_LA/TQvJ8U_AO0I/AAAAAAAABj8/2ByFCCudwaA/s400/10-11-26a%2BMagical%2BForest.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5551753003926567746" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_4eWFMlW-_LA/TQ8DLjHNA1I/AAAAAAAABkc/_NUP7CRexMY/s1600/10-11-26l%2BMeeting%2BSanta1.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_4eWFMlW-_LA/TQ8DLjHNA1I/AAAAAAAABkc/_NUP7CRexMY/s400/10-11-26l%2BMeeting%2BSanta1.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5552660362510009170" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_4eWFMlW-_LA/TQ8Hb4rx_sI/AAAAAAAABlU/IAuUTptLQ88/s1600/10-11-26c%2BMagical%2BForest.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_4eWFMlW-_LA/TQ8Hb4rx_sI/AAAAAAAABlU/IAuUTptLQ88/s400/10-11-26c%2BMagical%2BForest.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5552665041224990402" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_4eWFMlW-_LA/TQ8HbFb16EI/AAAAAAAABlE/83mS6BLi42k/s1600/10-11-26h%2BMagical%2BForest.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_4eWFMlW-_LA/TQ8HbFb16EI/AAAAAAAABlE/83mS6BLi42k/s400/10-11-26h%2BMagical%2BForest.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5552665027467929666" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_4eWFMlW-_LA/TQvJ8jEC7EI/AAAAAAAABkE/vQqtGDAj_1s/s1600/10-11-26i%2BMagical%2BForest%2BTrain%2BRide.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_4eWFMlW-_LA/TQvJ8jEC7EI/AAAAAAAABkE/vQqtGDAj_1s/s400/10-11-26i%2BMagical%2BForest%2BTrain%2BRide.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5551753007705812034" border="0" /></a>As tradition, we went to Tucanos in November to celebrate Jared's Birthday.  I can't wait to go in a few more months for my Birthday!!! <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_4eWFMlW-_LA/TQ8HcIi3kQI/AAAAAAAABlc/E8dF_gXytco/s1600/10-11-30a%2BJared%2527s%2BBirthday%2Bat%2BTucanos.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_4eWFMlW-_LA/TQ8HcIi3kQI/AAAAAAAABlc/E8dF_gXytco/s400/10-11-30a%2BJared%2527s%2BBirthday%2Bat%2BTucanos.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5552665045482574082" border="0" /></a> Getting ready for Christmas! Gavin helping us set up the Christmas tree<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_4eWFMlW-_LA/TQ8HbckrOrI/AAAAAAAABlM/FjXTwESPoqw/s1600/10-12-03a%2BPutting%2Bup%2Bthe%2BChristmas%2BTree1.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_4eWFMlW-_LA/TQ8HbckrOrI/AAAAAAAABlM/FjXTwESPoqw/s400/10-12-03a%2BPutting%2Bup%2Bthe%2BChristmas%2BTree1.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5552665033678994098" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_4eWFMlW-_LA/TQ8LDQfiTyI/AAAAAAAABl0/pUHgqpZ1LmM/s1600/10-12-08d%2BGavin%2527s%2BFirst%2BChritmas5.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_4eWFMlW-_LA/TQ8LDQfiTyI/AAAAAAAABl0/pUHgqpZ1LmM/s400/10-12-08d%2BGavin%2527s%2BFirst%2BChritmas5.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5552669016165863202" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_4eWFMlW-_LA/TQ8LDrMJapI/AAAAAAAABl8/PuVXYLNwUno/s1600/10-12-08d%2BGavin%2527s%2BFirst%2BChritmas3.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_4eWFMlW-_LA/TQ8LDrMJapI/AAAAAAAABl8/PuVXYLNwUno/s400/10-12-08d%2BGavin%2527s%2BFirst%2BChritmas3.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5552669023332297362" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_4eWFMlW-_LA/TQ8LC2cqoXI/AAAAAAAABlk/Q8OxfQLVa0w/s1600/10-12-06a%2BGavin%2527s%2BFirst%2BChristmas.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_4eWFMlW-_LA/TQ8LC2cqoXI/AAAAAAAABlk/Q8OxfQLVa0w/s400/10-12-06a%2BGavin%2527s%2BFirst%2BChristmas.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5552669009174503794" border="0" /></a>Gavin & Mommy updating our advent calendar <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_4eWFMlW-_LA/TQ8DMTxGNcI/AAAAAAAABks/Xv2R62wtAKU/s1600/10-12-08d%2BGavin%2527s%2BFirst%2BChritmas6.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_4eWFMlW-_LA/TQ8DMTxGNcI/AAAAAAAABks/Xv2R62wtAKU/s400/10-12-08d%2BGavin%2527s%2BFirst%2BChritmas6.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5552660375570625986" border="0" /></a></div></div>

Bowling at Fat Cats

I think Gavin was my good luck charm...I scored 150! My best score ever!

Thanks Giving in Las Vegas
Playing with cousins

Out for dinner with Kia and Jamie!

Christmas fun at the Magical Forest

As tradition, we went to Tucanos in November to celebrate Jared's Birthday. I can't wait to go in a few more months for my Birthday!!!

Getting ready for Christmas!
Gavin helping us set up the Christmas tree

Mommy & Gavin updating the advent calendar

Where Does the Time Go??

2010-12-04T19:23:00.010-07:00

I guess it's a little naive of me to think, "we've just been really busy lately because of such-and-such..." or "I can get to that once things settle down..." I'm realizing that life is almost always busy with one thing or another, and that's just a part of the definition of LIFE! It's wonderful, but BUSY!

Our little Gavin is now six months old (half a year?? How did that happen so fast!?), and just as cute as ever! New milestones include sitting up by himself, holding his own bottle, eating more solids, supporting his own weight when held standing up, and he's just barely starting to figure out how to scoot on his tummy towards objects just out of reach.

Quick update:

In November Heather and Trevor came down to visit. Lots of fun, lots of pictures that I'll have to post "when life isn't so busy"...
Jared's Birthday!
Thanksgiving in Vegas! - lots of yummy food, spending time with family, Christmas fun and meeting Santa at Opportunity Village
My soon to be even busier work schedule - In addition to my regular 7 on/7 off schedule, I've picked up a PREN (basically just a few shifts here and there) position at Utah Vally Regional Medical Center. On my 7 off I'll work one or two shifts down in Provo, in hopes that a full time position will open up that I can then rotate into. The 40 minute commute on top of a 10.5 hour shift makes my current work days close to 12 hours, and although I'll l be even more busy in the short term, eventually getting a position less than 5 minutes from home would be WONDERFUL!
Decorating for Christmas! I know it's already almost a week into December, (I'm working this week so it's excusable!) but we've started putting up Christmas decorations. Previously we haven't done too much, but this year we're excited to make our home feel more Christmas-y. We're in the process of putting lights on our new tree, I pulled out the stockings and the few other decorations we have, and then the three of us went to the Dollar Store and Big Lots to pick out some Christmas tree decorations, and a few other small things.
Christmas shopping - I tried to be really on top of Christmas this year so it wouldn't sneak up on me and I could enjoy getting gifts rather than be stressed out about it last minute. I still have a few more people to get for, but the majority of gifts are already purchased or at least I know what I'm getting!

I'm at work right now, so no pictures....but I'll post some soon.

Gavin's First Halloween!

2010-11-05T09:51:00.007-06:00

Gavin helped me make Halloween shortbread cookies...

But then we wouldn't even let him have any
He helped us carve pumpkins.... until we put him to bed and finished the rest without him
We took Gavin Trick or Treating at our ward Trunk or Treat... But then took away all his candy once we got home! Maybe he'll appreciate Halloween more when he's older...
but Jared and I had fun showing off this cutie, and
getting some candy out of it for ourselves!

About time for an update...

2010-10-30T08:22:00.000-06:00

It's crazy that Gavin is already almost 5 months old! I've been back to work now for two months, and life is busy but so great! Here's an update of what Gavin's been up to:

Rolling from his back to tummy
Loves to smile and laugh
Holds his head up
Loves to blow bubbles and drools like CRAZY
Grabs anything within reach and sticks it straight into his mouth (hair, glasses, earrings included)
Sits for a few seconds on his own before falling over
Starting to eat solids (so far just rice cereal, and an attempt at carrots)
Bears some weight on his legs when held up
Scoots across the floor on his back
Loves having cooing conversations with himself or anyone else (including stuffed animals)
Plays with his reflection
Holds and plays with rattles and other small toys
ALWAYS wants to be held

**I'm posting a few pictures here, but for those who want to see more of Gavin's cuteness (who

wouldn't), just click here to see a bunch more photos!**

At his last checkup Gavin weighed 12lb 12oz (the 10th percentile for his age), so we're hoping

adding some solids to his diet will help with the weight gain. Our doctor wasn't too concerned

about his smaller size, and says he's good and healthy!

Gavin has also become quite the BYU Cougar fan lately. With my work schedule, he's been to more of the football games with Daddy than I have. Gavin and Daddy also go to alot of the

women's soccer games, and I go with them whenever I'm not working. Gavin's first football game may have been a bit too much for him, as we were lower down and the stadium was VERY loud and crowded. Our next football game we left Gavin with a babysitter, and enjoyed the game from our second row seats, right behind the goal posts at the south end zone!

Now when Jared and Gavin go the games, they make sure to climb way up to the top of the stadium where it's less crowded and not too loud for Gavin's little ears.
After our trip to California this past summer, my cousin Michael came to Provo for a short over night visit before we dropped him off at the MTC. We're glad he got to meet Gavin before heading out. He is now serving his mission in Ontario, Canada!

My Nana also was just barely down for a visit to meet her first great-grandson! We had fun at the park, reading stories, going out for dinner, and playing toodalama! It really was such a great visit!

We're now looking forward to a visit from Grandma, Grandpa, and Aunt Janea this weekend, and then Heather and Trevor are coming down a few weeks later!

More Photos!

2010-09-27T00:13:00.009-06:00

Our sister-in-law Rachel is an amazing photographer...and took these super

cute photos while we were on our trip to California this past August.

Gangster Baby

2010-09-05T16:47:00.000-06:00

California Vacation Pictures

2010-09-04T15:32:00.012-06:00

Meeting Great Grandma & Grandpa in Beaver, Utah

Driving through the gorge on the way to Vegas

Grandpa's My Hero / All American Grandpa Shirts

Mission Beach, San Diego

Our family

Going to get frozen yogourt

Jen, Easton, & Janea

Easton & Aunti Janea

Burying Janea

Gavin touching the ocean for his first time

Cute Teagan

Meeting Aunt Allison

Uncle Jared, Elaina, & Gavin

Meeting up with Allison in California

Erin, Jen, Allison, Elaina, & Gavin

What a cutie!

Grandma with Easton & Teagan

Napping on the beach

Rachel & Janea

Grandma & the boys

Mommy & baby

Rachel & her cute boys

Cousins (it’s hard to get a good one of them all)

Old Town San Diego Court House, built by the Mormon Battalion

Jayden at the Mormon Battalion Museum

Panning for gold at the Mormon Battalion Museum

The Hole

Busy, Busy, Busy!

2010-09-02T08:53:00.005-06:00

After 12 weeks of maternity leave and spending every day with Gavin, it was quite an adjustment heading back to work full time last week. I started back to work in the lab at Intermountain Medical Center August 25th. My new schedule is 3pm to 1:30am (still working 7 days on then 7 days off). It's hard being gone close to 12 hours each day, but Jared is such an incredible dad and husband, which makes working alot easier!!!

On the weeks that I work Daddy and Gavin get to spend lots of quality time together in the afternoons and evenings! And each night that I come home the house is spotless; my clothes are folded for me, Gavin's toys and blankets are put away, dishes are done, etc! I am so blessed and grateful to have such a wonderful supportive husband.

My first week on is over, and although I would love to find a part time position close to home, I really enjoy what I do and am grateful be able to help support our family right now.

I'll have to post pictures later, but the week before I started back to work Gavin took his first vacation! It was right after Jared finished his thesis (woohoo!) and before I started work again, so it was completely stress free!!! We went to San Diego with Jared's family and had a great time! We stayed right on Mission Beach, and although the water seemed alot colder this year and I didn't get in it as much, it was nice to relax on the beach and spend time with everyone.

On our way down to Vegas we were able to stop off in Beaver to visit Jared's Grandma and Grandpa for a bit, and have them meet Gavin. Aunt Val and her family were also up there and got to meet Gavin as well. We also got to visit lots of Vegas friends, and it's always great to see everyone when we go down to Vegas!

Gavin has also been a busy little baby ! He's discovered his toes, and his favourite thing to do lately is sit propped up on the couch holding both feet up in the air with his hands. He loves watching his teddy bear mobile spin around and listening to the music it plays, and the car seat toy is another great hit with this kid. We attach it to his swing, and it has little things that he can hit and make spin around with his hands, but since discovering his feet, he's realized it's alot more fun to kick the frog and turtle. And Gavin's latest accomplishment...He rolled from his tummy to his back!!! He did it four times August 26th, the again a few days later on the webcam for Nany M, but hasn't rolled over since. I guess we'll have to spend some more time perfecting that one!

P.S. -- I'll make sure to post pictures from our trip soon!

Poop Chute...and other news

2010-08-04T23:55:00.000-06:00

Jared is definitely an engineer! He's designed a 'Poop Chute', so....rather than having to walk outside to the trash, here is how we now get rid of Gavin's diapers:

The change table is right in front of the window, so all we have to do is open the window, pull the cord to open the garbage lid, and send the diapers down the chute!! Ingenious!

In other news, I thought I'd post a few pictures from our Pioneer Day. Pioneer Park, just a block from our home, was having it's annual Pioneer Day Extravaganza with a log saw, native American dances and tepees, live folk music, a petting zoo, pony rides, a car show, etc. I think it's cool that they have all the LDS missionaries in Provo Manning the different booths. Later that evening we headed back to the park with blankets to watch Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs on a huge screen.

Last Thursday Jared had his thesis defense! (I should really have him tell how it went), but he felt it went really well, and I know all the pitches he's done recently with TranquilMed helped alot in preparing him for his presentation. His advisors are wanting him to make some changes and adjustments....sooo, now he's just working on small revisions to get it ready to submit to the library! And as soon as all the revisions and other paper work is completed....we're off to California!!!

Photo Update

2010-07-24T14:52:00.019-06:00

To Jared and I it doesn't seem like Gavin has changed all that much, but when I compare what he used to look like to how big he is now, I can see the difference.

In the past seven weeks here's some more of what we've been up to:

Visits from family, both in person and via webcam

Gavin's first carnival - Our Stake does an annual carnival, with music, cotton candy, snow cones, hot dogs and hamburgers, and games for the kids.

Since my parents live in Saudi Arabia, they don't get the opportunity to go to the temple very often. It was great to be able to go to the Provo temple while they were here visiting! My parents brought family names, and we did sealings. It was wonderful to be able to go and do that together. I love going to the temple and am blessed to live close to so many. It's easy to get distracted with other things going on, but once I'm there I never regret it. I want to become more dedicated and try to go to the temple more often.

Gavin was blessed on Father's Day, while both mine and Jared's parents were in town, and Jayden was there as well. It was a special day, Jared gave a beautiful blessing, and it was great to see so many friends! It was fun to celebrate Jared's first Father's Day with some gifts as well!

Lots of walks! The grocery store is just a few blocks away, plus there's a park right by our place.

Learning to play Halo with Daddy

Gavin has started smiling, and is just so cute!

So Close!!

2010-07-22T18:20:00.002-06:00

This week has definitely been a long one! I know I planned on blogging each Wednesday, and that's still the plan, but yesterday I think I was still recuperating from the all-nighter Jared and I pulled Monday night. Jared is so close to being finished with his thesis, and he's more than ready to be done and focus his attention on 100% on TranquilMed.

We were on campus so Jared could finish up his thesis, and I helped a bit with the reference page, and to proof read his paper. We were both jealous of Gavin, who slept contently most of the night in his stroller. At about 5:45am Tuesday morning Jared dropped me and Gavin off at home and went back to campus to finish things up and turn in the draft to his advisory board. His defense is July 29th, and fingers crossed, by August 12 it will be all done.

I am so proud of Jared, and lucky to have such a wonderful, intelligent, dedicated, loving husband. We think Gavin has a bit of a cold this week, and he's been more fussy than usual. Jared is out taking him for a walk right now, so that I'm able to do some stuff for me. I love watching him play with Gavin, and Gavin loves smiling at all the silly things Daddy does! I couldn't have asked for a better husband and father for our children!

ps - I'll upload some recent pictures of our cute boy later, I'm off to join Gavin and Jared on their walk!

No Naps Mommy!

2010-07-14T16:28:00.005-06:00

I thought babies this little (Gavin is six weeks old today), typically spend alot of time sleeping. But not this one. Gavin is sleeping really well at night, usually only waking up once to nurse, but we've found he's much happier in the evenings (as are we) when he gets at least a few naps in during the day as well. The only problem....he'd rather be up playing than sleeping!

For the majority of the day while Jared is on campus Gavin is content to be laid out on a blanket where he can look around and watch what's going on, or swing happily in his swing. Usually the only times he's really fussy during the morning or afternoon is when I'm trying to get him to fall asleep!

At first I would simply lay him down in his crib after nursing him. He'd be wide eyed and happy, looking around; I'd leave him alone thinking he'd eventually fall asleep, but once he gets tired of the view from his crib he'll start to whimper for me to come get him, then cry until I do. I go get him, lay him on the ground in the front room, and once again he's as content as can be to just lay there, wide away!

The past few days I've started trying to rock him to sleep in my arms before placing him in the crib, which works half the time, but the other half of the time this is what ends up happening: I'm sitting in the glider rocking Gavin in my arms; he dozes off but I make sure to rock a few minutes longer to make sure he's good and asleep before attempting to stand up and make my way to the crib. I successfully get up, get to the crib, and just as I'm about to lay him down a smile slowly creeps across his cute little face until his eyes suddenly pop open and he's grinning BIG!

He's saying, "I tricked you again Mommy, now can we go play!?" I so wish I could capture this charade of his on video because it is so stinkin' cute! About half the time he ends up winning at this point and I'm more than happy to just cuddle and play with my cute little boy, postponing nap time till later.

June Update

2010-07-10T15:16:00.015-06:00

I know I've probably said this before, but I really want to get better at updating our blog more regularly. So my new goal is to post once a week. I'll make Wednesday my blog update day, so I'll remember to do it each week.

Gavin is now one month, one week, and two days old today! And already we've seen so many changes in him. Although it did take him three weeks to get back up to his original birth weight (7lb 8oz), Gavin is doing well and now weighs 8lb 13oz!

He's still not a fan of bath time or tummy time...

But loves cuddle time with Mommy & Daddy, and has just started smiling!

Jared got to celebrate his first Father's Day and was given some books from Gavin (they were more for Gavin than Jared though). I think the real Father's Day gift for Jared was being able to give his son a baby blessing in church that day.

Last weekend was a busy one, with Canada Day, family reunions, and Independence Day. July 1st we planned on going up Provo Canyon for a wiener roast, but had a last minute change of plans and went to Utah Lake with some friends instead. So we improvised our wiener roast slightly before heading over to Joel and Angie's. We set off fireworks and played with sparklers until the mosquitoes forced us to leave.

The 2nd was the Crookston Family Reunion up Provo Canyon. There's no real blood relation, but they're still considered 'family' and Jared's gone to lots of Crooskton Reunions. This was my second Crookston Reunion.

Saturday morning we drove up to Huntsville for my Hall Family Reunion. We had lunch in the backyard of the David O. McKay home, then went to the Huntsville Cemetery where family members are buried. I think I was able to figure out how I'm related to some of them, but I'll have to check with my Mom who's alot better with all the family history. Even though it was my family reunion, we randomly met some other Edgel's there! Another Edgel, somehow related to through Jared's Grandpa Max Edgel, had also married into the Hall family! So it ended up being a bit of an Edgel Family Reunion as well.

After dinner Jared and I headed for the airport to pick up my Dad. He had a one day layover in Utah before flying back to Saudi, so he spent the night at our place and got to see Gavin again before heading home. Because the 4th was on a Sunday this year, and we're in Utah, the big fireworks show was on the 3rd. So after picking my dad up from the airport, we headed home, fed Gavin, and were out again to watch the show. After such a long day Gavin pretty much slept through the show, and didn't even wake up for ice cream at Sub Zero!

This past Friday was National Cow Appreciation Day (thanks Allison for letting us know), so we all dressed up like cows and headed over to Chick-fil-A for a free meal. Even Gavin got a free kids meal, which he generously shared with Daddy, although he insisted on keep the toy all for himself!

Gavin has enjoyed meeting family and friends and can't wait to meet more family when we go on our trip to California in August! We're going with Jared's family, but I just found out this week that the Trousdales will be in California the same week visiting Mike's family, so we'll have to plan on meeting up with them since we'll only be a few hours away!

I've created a Picasa web album for Gavin that I'll keep updated, so if you want to see more pictures of this cutie here's the link! http://picasaweb.google.com/jennifer.edgel/Gavin?authkey=Gv1sRgCJnerKTbqKrDVQ#

Gavin is HERE!!

2010-06-03T16:17:00.005-06:00

Gavin Daniel Edgel was born June 2, 2010 at 4:20pm in the Utah Valley Regional Medical Center in Provo, Utah. He was 7 lbs 8.3 oz and 19 inches long. He was born with a full head of brown hair.

His birth was not an easy one. We went to the hospital at 6:00am and mom was dilated to 4cm. Mom got her epidural at 7:45am which didn't kick in until a little after 8am. By 9:30am Mom was dilated to a nine but the doctor hadn't arrived. So we waited and waited. I got to work on my thesis a bit even. The doctor arrived at 1:10pm and broke her water. Then pushing began. Gavin was face up and that made things difficult. Little progress was made and by 4:10pm the doctor used forceps. In 3 pushes, with the help of the forceps, we brought Gavin into this world. He had his umbilical cord wrapped around his neck and with other slight complications he was rushed off to the NICU with a quick kiss from Mom. He wasn't breathing well and so he was attached to a C-pap machine. I got to be with him. We were worried and it got pretty emotional but after an hour on the C-pap he was taken off and his breathing had returned to normal. Mom didn't get to see him much so he made his first phone call and actually sneezed so Mom could hear him. Finally after all the paperwork, a bath, vaccines, and a security picture Mom got to hold Gavin for the first time at 7:35pm.

Gavin and Mom are doing well. No other complications have occurred. Now we're just waiting to see when we get to go home.

It's Finished!!

2010-05-23T07:56:00.007-06:00

I started this project a while ago, (back in February actually), and have learned alot in the process. The binding by far took me the longest to finish, as I learned how to first make the binding, attach it to the blanket, and then make mitered corners.

After machine sewing the binding to the front it had to be hand stitched on the back, which took a while to do. It was fun to make, and I'm excited to get better at sewing and to try something different for my next project!

Getting Closer

2010-05-16T20:43:00.004-06:00

Only two and a half weeks (17 days!) until my due date now...and only one week left of work!!! I've honestly been really fortunate in having a great pregnancy with hardly any morning sickness, and no complications or issues. However, in about the past week I've finally started experiencing more of the aches and pains associated with pregnancy - mainly lots of of lower back pain!

Jared likes to tease for how long it takes me to move around, especially getting out of bed, and has dubbed me the "cargo ship" as I roll or inch over to the edge of the bed and pull myself up and out. But he honestly has been so supportive in making sure I take care of myself and Gavin.

He's the one that tries to make sure we get out for a walk each day - which has been great, especially with the weather being so nice out finally! He's been giving lots of back rubs lately, helps out with meals, dishes, cleaning, etc. and even puts on my socks when I can't figure out how to reach my own foot!

Jared's going to be a great Dad! He loves laying on my belly and talking with Gavin, or putting speakers on my belly and playing him music! We already feel like Gavin is a part of our family and can't wait to be able to hold him and have him in our home!

Other than a temporary home for your baby while you're pregnant, here's a list of some other things I've realized your belly turns into while you're pregnant:

1. The obvious - it works great as a mini table

2. A mouse pad

3. Pillow for your husband - although Jared says it's not as cushy now as it used to be when Gavin took up less room

4. Book stand

5. Arm rest

6. Source of entertainment - playing "guess that body part", or just watching my belly move in weird ways

Yummy Dessert!

2010-05-13T14:47:00.002-06:00

The other day I made this really simple and delicious dessert recipe that I found online. I don't even know what to call it, but it was so so good and thought it was worth sharing!

1 20 oz can crushed pineapples

1 can cherry pie filling

1/2 cup butter

1 chocolate cake box mix

Drain the pineapples (save liquid) and spread in the bottom of crock pot. Next, layer in the cherry pie filling. Pour the dry chocolate cake mix on top. In a sauce pan melt butter and add pineapple juice. Heat. Pour liquid in crock pot over the cake mix. Cook on low for 3 hours.

It's kinda this fudge/chocolaty/brownie mush of goodness!

27 Days and Counting!

2010-05-06T16:02:00.018-06:00

Well, 27 days left until my due date that is, and we'll just have to wait and see if Gavin decides to come on time or not. I've been posting lots of pregnant pictures on Facebook so these might be duplicates for lots of you, but for those who don't have Facebook, enjoy!

Florida Trip

2010-03-01T08:45:00.001-07:00

We are back from our trip to Florida! We were gone for 11 days and had a great time, but it's also nice to be back in our own home (and bed) and back into a regular routine. Here's some highlights from our trip:

Sea World

Beach

Butterfly World

Cruise

24 Years of Memories

2010-02-07T19:30:00.001-07:00

Is it not crazy how when you are young a year seems more like an eternity? Now it feels as though time refuses to slow down and I'm just trying to keep up! I was shocked the other nigh at my party when an old roommate mentioned we first lived together four years ago, and my reply was, "No, I just started college about four years ago..." until I thought about it and realized she was right, and it was almost six years ago, not four, that I started at BYU!

I though it would be a cool challenge to come up with just one memory for each year of my life, so here it is:

(I definitely used the aid of our family photo album CDs for some of the earlier years)

1986 - I was born! How could this have been anything but a memorable occasion!
1987 - This is a guess, but I remember always going blueberry picking when we visited my Grandma in Kenora, so I'm betting we did this at some point during '87
1988 - Although I have no recollection of it, the '88 Winter Olympics were celebrated in my home town of Calgary, Alberta, Canada
1989 - The first real memory I have, as a three year I went to Kenora and spent time alone with Grandma at Easter! I can distinctly remember making homemade play-dough, eating cream of wheat, and playing hide and seek with the LDS missionaries
1990 - Not a singular memory, but rather a compilation of lots of memories from early on of going for rides to the park across the street or down the block in our red wooden wagon
1991 - Receiving my AMAZING barbie doll house that my dad build for my 5th Birthday
1992 - David and I were always best buds growing up, and we have plenty of memories of making forts, having sleep overs, and reading books together
1993 - Family road trip to Disneyland! We drove down through Utah, and stopped to see all the Temples on our way. We also went to the Red Wood forest and our tent trailer got stuck in the giant drive through tree
1994 - February 5th - My baptism
1995 - My first of many backpacking trips. Twin falls with my dad, sisters, and Auntie Cathy
1996 - Summer road trip to Texas - South Padre Island, San Antonio, and hot springs at the Rio Grande
1997 - Our family moved to Dallas, Texas
1998 - We moved from Dallas to Caracas, Venezuela
1999 - Our trip to New York on our way moving back to Calgary
2000 - Summer trip to Europe with my Nana
2001 - My Grandma past away this year. Our family drove out to Ontario for the funeral and I remember us all reminiscing about fun memories we each had with her, and going back to visit all the typical places like Husky the Musky, the chip wagon, and the tree in front of Grandma's old home
2002 - Our family's move to Buenos Aires, Argentina
2003 - EFY at BYU - our group was awesome, and we won the "Spunity" Award for being the group with the most spirit and the most unity
2004 - Senior year of high school Alicia, Liz, Emily, and I took our own "Senior Trip" to Villa Gesell, Argentina (and all got VERY burn). I probably have half a photo album full of pictures from the few days we were there
2005 - For Christmas my parents, David, and I went on a trip to South Africa
2006 - Jared and I met on Valentines Day (exactly six years ago in a few days)
2007 - December 1 - Jared proposed (and I said yes!)
2008 - Jared and I were married for Time and all Eternity on May 9th in the Las Vegas, Nevada temple
2009 - September 21 - I found out I was pregnant! (the longest few hours ever waiting for Jared to get home from campus to tell him the news)
1010 - Although not a memory yet...I'm pretty certain the birth of our first child will be a significant memory of the year!

IT'S A BOY!

2010-01-31T08:30:00.013-07:00

On January 19th I had my 20 week ultrasound....and we were both surprised to find out we are having a baby boy! My sister has two girls, and Jared's brother had a girl, so it will be the first grandson on both sides of our families, so we're excited. However, the best news was to hear that our baby looks healthy and is growing well.

I am now exactly 22 weeks and 4 days pregnant, no longer fit into any of my pants (except for scrubs for work), and I am feeling the baby move every day. We had a tough time coming up with boy names, but Gavin is the name we're pretty set on. It's not set in stone yet, so we'll have to wait and see if our minds change over the next 4 and a half months.

Here are the first few of many more baby pictures to come!!!! You may not agree, and may have difficulty even distinguishing some of the pictures, but both Jared and I happen to think we have the cutest baby boy! (and of course we're not at all bias!)

Here's looking straight down at his face

(his foreheads to the left)

Baby's profile

Baby's arm

(I'm pretty sure that's also part of a leg to the right)

Baby's leg

(we saw him kick during the ultrasound!)

(In this one his tummy and arm are to the left)

And lastly... Proof that we're having a baby boy!

Christmas Fun

2009-12-28T11:50:00.004-07:00

Christmas this year was spent in Texas with Allison, Mike, Elaina, and Erin. My parents also came to stay at Allison's place and we had a great time together. Here's some pictures.

Condo Update

2009-11-21T02:57:00.001-07:00

We've finally started moving into our new condo! Jared's mom came up this week and she and Jared have been busy repainting most of the rooms. This has been my week on at work so I haven't had time to help out with any of the painting; however, I did start bringing over a few carloads of stuff. It's starting to feel more and more like our own place, and I can't wait to be completely moved in! (hopefully by Wednesday before we head down to Vegas for Thanksgiving)

Trick or Treat

2009-11-03T14:31:00.007-07:00

Although our costumes this year were very last minute ideas, I think they turned out pretty great! Here's our pumpkin we carved....(also done very last minute) of Jack Skellington. We were watching The Nightmare Before Christmas Halloween night as we finished up our costumes.

So my costume isn't too original...I went as myself, and Jared is the trauma patient who's labs I'm running. I have a urine sample and blood sample of his. He was ran over by a car (tire treads on his pants) has knives stabbed through his arm, chest, and leg, and....he also has H1N1 (not a great evening for him!)

My Monthly Blogging Goal

2009-10-25T00:40:00.007-06:00

Clearly I'm not the consistent blogger I wish I was, so here's my new goal:

Post something new at least once every month

Considering my last post was four months ago, I thought only one new post a month would (hopefully) be a fairly realistic goal. I love going to friends/family's blogs to see what's new, and envy those of you that manage to update yours on even a somewhat regular basis.

For this month, here's an update of all the things I never got around to posting:
1. The rest of our summer trips were amazing! I spent a weekend in Albuquerque visiting Jared while he was down there for two weeks doing research. Then we had a week in Canada with my family, went to the Calgary Stampede, ate at lots of Stampede dinners/breakfasts around the city, and visited old friends. Lastly, we went to California with Jared's family, spent a day at Disneyland, and every other day was spent on the beach/playing in the ocean. Pictures from this summer are all posted on Facebook.

2. Just over a month ago (Sept. 21st) Jared and I found out that we are having a baby!!!! My first Dr. appointment was on the Oct. 5th, and unfortunately we weren't able to hear a heartbeat yet or figure out how far along I was. So I was told to come back in a week for an ultrasound. Although Jared and I had a hard time making out a baby from the ultrasound we were assured that there is one in there, and hearing our babies heartbeat really made it all seem more real! I am now eight weeks pregnant and our due date is June 2nd. We're excited to be adding a new addition to our little family!

3. The Trousdales came to visit! A few weeks ago Mike's brother got married so Allison, Mike, Elaina, and Erin all came up to Utah for a week. Elaina must have learned about nocturnal animals recently in preschool, because as I was leaving one night to go to work and explaining that I sleep during the day and work at night, Elaina asked me, "so, are you nocturnal?" I've never thought of it like that before, but I guess she's right! It was great to see and spend time with the Trousdales, and at Christmas we'll be going down to Texas to visit them!

4. We are buying a condo! We found three that we really liked; one sold before we even had a chance to put in an offer, we put in an offer on another but they wouldn't lower their asking price and it was just too much for us, and the third lowered their price much more than we were expecting... and we close this week! It's a 2 bed/1 bath which will be perfect with a little baby on the way! Although we don't plan on staying in Provo long term, it will be "owner occupied" long enough so we qualify for an FHA loan, and then once we move we'll keep it as a rental property. Jared and I have been taking lots of classes/reading a ton of books on real estate and business and it's become a new passion of ours. It's so much better being able to study and learn things without having the stress of exams.