HeAPPENINGS

Today was quite eventful. We all woke up around 9:00 this morning and lured Ethan downstairs. He first saw a Little People Garage that Santa left and really wasn't interested in anything else. We helped him open his stocking, but he continued to get excited about one item and didn't want to move onto the next. Santa was generous and brought Ethan some Disney figurines, a Yo-Yo Ball, a Microphone like Sid the Science Kid, a coloring book, Skittles, and his beloved Red Vines. Ethan continued to play with each toy after opening it and spent almost an hour opening gifts - Mr. Potato Head Silly Suitcase; Pixar Storybook; Fridge Phonics; Mack the Truck w/ Wingo, DJ, and Snot Rod; and a homemade fleece blanket. Ryan scored some new movies - Iron Man and Indiana Jones, a full-color Dilbert desk calendar, and some Transformers from Ethan. Addy got Get Smart, some wrist weights, and a Santa Potato Head from Ethan. Lots of fun things for a low budget Christmas.

We then enjoyed some cinnamon rolls and quickly got showers and packed up to head over to Ryan's parents. We were able to visit with family for a little while, Ethan had full reign of the toy room upstairs, and we enjoyed some homemade waffles. We knew we wouldn't have much time, but wanted to spend some more time with family. Time flew by and we packed up and headed back home to make mashed potatoes, gravy and stuffing. Ethan had a moment to play with all of his loot and watched part of the Christmas Story on TV. He was actually laughing... quite funny. Ryan also got a moment to call his Mom in Oregon and enjoyed visiting with her.

After we got the food prepared, we headed over to Troy & Crystal's for some Bowman family time. Shortly after arrival, we enjoyed a scrumptious meal and good conversation. There are lots of cousins on the Bowman side and the kids had fun playing with new toys and running around in the dance room. The cousins did an ornament exchange - Ethan was so happy when he opened his green, hand painted turtle from Alyssa. Every year the Bowman's rotate, so our gift exchange doesn't last long. The highlight is usually watching Grandma Louise open her gift. This year we all chipped in and got her a neck massager and massage chair that she has had her eye on. The grandkids got her some Lincoln Logs. She was thrilled and looked like a kid on Christmas morning. She insisted that everyone try the massagers out... clearly a much appreciated gift. After some ice cream and pie we packed up and headed home.

It was a busy day... we felt bad that Ethan didn't have much time to play with his new toys, but we enjoyed all the time we had with family. Thank you to everyone who made it a special one!

Every year Ryan's parents have a party that is a little more formal, so we got Ethan all dressed up in his new Church clothes. We took advantage of the photo opportunity and got a shot - fruit snacks and all. With Church at 8:00am, we failed to get pictures of him last Sunday. It was lunch time by the time we got home and there was no way of catching him on film, at least in a pleasant mood.

We headed over to Ryan's parents house and were surprised that we were the first to arrive. Ethan enjoyed playing with a singing plush snowman and penguins, Ryan tried avoiding human contact (he was sick), and Addy visited with Grandpa & Grandma Zoratti while Ethan was happy (she is on Ethan duty while we are with the Heap side of the family). Family and friends slowly arrived and we all were able to enjoy a variety of delicious food.

The adults visited, Ryan played Christmas Hymns on the piano (one day Santa will bring one to our house), kids played, some ventured out to the backyard to shoot the potato gun for a little while (a visit by the Police in the neighborhood required a short break... the potato gun makes a very loud noise), Ethan enjoyed a bath in Grandpa & Grandma's bath tub that makes for a sweet slide, and then came the presents.

This year it was all about the kids. All four (Justin Zoratti, Ainsley & Corrine Dendinger, and Ethan) had a fun time ripping into all the gifts. Excitement filled the room. Ethan was beyond spoiled... he got Mega Blocks; a Mickey Mouse book and plush toy; Mr. Bubbles; Crayons for the bath tub; a Yellow Duck (he had to show everyone); a plush Camel; a Clifford book; puzzles; a wooden Penguin puzzle from Argentina, a Buzz Lightyear shirt; Cars - Mater, Luigi, Guido; Trains and track; Wall-E figurines and books; a Mickey Mouse ornament; and some green. Needless to say, he was in heaven.

After a little playtime, we decided to head home. Ethan was on a toy high and wanted to play with toys all night. We have been doing a Christmas Advent Calendar and wanted to put in the last picture - Jesus. We got Ethan to calm down and were able to have a great end to the evening. Ethan opened his last gift of the night; a new board book about Jesus. The First Presidency also delivered the Heap Family a new book about the Doctrine and Covenants. It was a very different feeling than the rest of the evening, but it was nice to share the Spirit with Ethan and teach him about the true meaning of Christmas.

For those of you who think that Addy always has a clean, organized house and a clean dressed child who always has his hair brushed...


This is for you.

(Notice the Star Wars T-Shirt w/ the Cars Pajama bottoms, 'Pirate' shoes, dirty face w/ a sticker from the soap dispenser, uncombed hair, and eating a cookie for lunch.)

Ethan loves to chase Edith. He also loves to torment her. He also loves her and will often meow at her in his sweet tone.

Edith loves Ethan. She visits him while he is in the bathtub. She comes to him if he is crying. She really enjoys him, even if she would never admit it (that is if she could speak).

Today Edith was lying on the arm of the couch, a spot where she often sits. Ethan was going through some of his movies and pulled out Ice Age. He apparently thought that Edith might enjoy it, so he walked over to her and showed her the front of the movie. The visual was accompanied with, "Ice Age. It's a good movie."

Love is precious.

Ethan has recently been working on his computer skills. He enjoys playing on Sesame Street's web site. Some of his favorites include Big Bird's Letters, Big Bird's Numbers, Twinkle Twinkle Little Star with Zoe, and Elmo's Key Board-O-Rama. His all time favorite is a Halloween game where you decorate a pumpkin, witch, or scare-crow. The unfortunate part is that this game is done solely with the mouse (aka... Mom and Dad have to help the entire time).

Today, it clicked. Ethan has figured out how to use the mouse with minimal fits. We love our son, but it is so nice to have an activity that Ethan can independently enjoy. As Ryan got home from work this evening, Addy was finishing up dinner and Ethan was happily playing his game. Needless to say, Addy is happy and relieved that Ethan has found something he enjoys to do and gives her time to work on things that used to be taken care of during nap time.

Ahhh... it actually feels like winter. We have been enjoying the cloud cover, cooler temperatures and rain. Gorgeous! (The photo doesn't do it justice.)

Last week we went to get the oil changed at the Chevy Dealership. Every year they have a Santa and you can get your picture taken with him for free. Ethan wanted nothing to do with him, except for getting a candy cane. Since this encounter with Santa, Ethan will tell you that he wants Santa to bring him a candy can when asked.

Today Ethan and Addy were in the car running some errands. With Christmas quickly approaching, we have been asking Ethan questions and talking about all things Christmas. The dialogue went as follows:

Addy: Ethan, what do you want Santa to bring you?
Ethan: Candy cane. -pause- Santa bag?
Addy: Yes, Santa has a bag. What's inside his bag?
Ethan: Presents? Toys?
Addy: Is Santa bringing Ethan toys?
Ethan: Yes!
Addy: What toys does Ethan want Santa to bring?
Ethan: -thinking- Trains!
Addy: Anything else?
Ethan: -thinking, with a finger tap on his lips- Balls!
Addy: Anything else?
Ethan: -more intense thinking- Cars!
Addy: -thinking that we didn't get him any of those things- Anything else?
Ethan: -stretching into the depths of his desires- Rock Band!!!

It was so fun to see Ethan really thinking about it and having the idea that Santa would bring him presents. We recently watched the end of Polar Express and have been singing Up on the Housetop, so maybe he put things together and... click!

Where have we been? Busy.

We updated the blog... all the way back into October. So, if you're bored and need something to do, have a look.

Earlier this week our friends, the Scholes, called us to see if we wanted to go to the APS Boat Light Parade at Tempe Town Lake. They were coming from another place than their house, so we arranged to meet at the Park by the Lake. Unfortunately, we couldn't find them and don't have cell phones to call them.

We walked all around the park looking for the Scholes and a place to watch the Parade, but couldn't find anything that wasn't completely surrounded by people. We decided to watch the parade from the Mill Avenue Bridge. We found a great spot and got pretty cold waiting for it to start. Ethan enjoyed seeing all the lights, Santas, snowmen, reindeer, and candy canes on the boats. After the parade, there were fireworks. We were so glad that they were right after the parade... it was really cold (for Arizona).

Thanks for inviting us Scholes... maybe next year we'll plan better.

General Dynamics gives out awards to individuals who have gone above and beyond what they have been asked. Since Ryan typically doesn't work extra hours, he felt that he would never receive the award. On Thursday, there was a short meeting where he and another co-worker were given the Silver Eagle award. Ryan was so excited that his efforts had not gone unnoticed and enjoyed reading comments from his teammates.

He was also excited about a small bonus that came with the award. Who doesn't like unexpected money? Ryan usually does not splurge, so when he wanted to get some fun things with the money Addy quickly called it his 'report card money'. As a child, he got money when he got good grades and would buy video games... kind of the same thing.

After researching online and looking around Best Buy, he concluded that he would purchase a BluRay player and Rock Band for our PS2. He is so excited about his new toys and looks forward to sharing it with friends and family.

Good job Ryan!!! We're so glad that you were recognized for all your hard work.

A few months ago we posted on Edith's obsession with a particular blanket. She has since moved on and has settled for the bean bag.


She can be moddy at times, but she's a cat and female. What else would we expect? She's a great part of our family and we're glad that she has taken a liking to Ethan.

Anjie and Aidan invited us to go to the Zoo today. After dropping Daniel off at ASU for a study group, we headed to the Zoo. We went the usual path, but quickly discovered that several of the animals were not in their exhibits due to their annual check-ups. We decided to check out the new Discovery Farm and enjoyed seeing some animals in that area of the Zoo. Ethan usually doesn't like touching the animals or going near them, but as a chicken walked around Aidan and Ethan's strollers, he seemed to get a kick out of it (as long as it didn't come too close). Addy also learned that Ethan is definitely more of a visual learner. He did not want to touch some displays that gave you the feeling of touching the animals. After walking around for a little while, the boys enjoyed playing on the farm. Ethan had fun on the slide and playing with plastic pumpkin slices. He enjoyed it so much that he thought it was his and screamed when a child would come to play. After some swinging arms, Addy decided that it was time to get a snack. Ethan inhaled a cup of milk as we headed for the Carousel. Last time Ethan rode on one, he insisted on sitting on the bench. Addy got him to sit on a dolphin and he enjoyed the ride. After a look in the Gift Shop, we headed to Barro's where the boys played and we enjoyed some pizza. Another fun outing to the Zoo... thanks for the invite Anjie and Aidan!

Five years of marriage and this is the first time that we have the opportunity to plant winter grass. Ryan read up online, got some information, and got to work. A few weeks ago, he spent several hours mowing the lawn on each setting to get it as short as possible. He quickly discovered that it would have been easier if he had a different kind of mower. He laid the seed and manure... mmmm, it smelled sooo good. Hear the sarcasm? We watered the grass several times each day and stayed off the lawn for 4 weeks. Ethan was awesome and walked around it on the rocks to his play area. We thought that the grass looked a little thin, so thanks to some warmer weather Ryan laid down some more seed in hopes of making it look better.


Today, the lawn was nice and long... ready to be cut. Some seeds got out of the cement edging and started to grow, so Ryan and Ethan started out by pulling the 'weeds' out of the rocks. Ethan was so cute sitting next to Ryan and helping him. They were out there for over three hours. It is amazing how Ethan's attention span can be when he hangs out with his dad. After pulling weeds most of the day and dusk quickly approaching, Ryan mowed the lawn. It is a little thin in some areas, but overall looks awesome. It is so nice to have a place for Ethan to run, play, and explore.

Today is Grandma Louise's birthday and Ethan took her out to lunch at a favorite, Red Robin's. We were also lucky to have Anjie and Aidan join us. To celebrate an awesome Mom, Mother-in-Law, and Grandma, we decided that we should share things that make her who she is...

- She is willing to do anything for anyone.
- She treats all her kids' friends just like they were her own.
- She is a hard worker and taught Addy to be too.
- She loves her grandkids.
- She always gives Ethan hugs and kisses just above his nose.
- She is a strong daughter of God and is an example to everyone around her.
- She works at the Temple 2 days a week and the Family History Center in her Stake 1 day a week.
- She always remembers special events (birthdays, anniversaries, etc.).
- She calls you on your birthday to sing TMBG's 'Older', even though she doesn't know all the words.

We love you Grandma Louise! Thank you for teaching us so much and being an example to us. We're lucky to have you! Happy Birthday!

Ethan’s vocabulary has been expanding a lot lately. He has started putting sentences together and using larger words, for a 2-year-old. He will comment on things, for example, he will say that the Christmas lights are ‘so beautiful’.

Today he was in the car and said, “Christmas lights… impossible!” It was hilarious to hear him say something like that. It made no sense, but it probably did to him. The best part is that it is so clear. He says all the syllables. We really have enjoyed each stage he goes through.

We thought that Ethan loved Halloween... little did we know. He loves Christmas just as much, if not more. Before Thanksgiving there were a few homes with lights and blow up figurines outside including a snowman, Santa, and a turkey (Ethan called it a chicken). Ever since he has been sooo excited about looking at lights and every Christmas display in the stores.

Addy has been working on teaching him what Christmas is really about. Our conversation typically goes as follows:
Addy: Is Christmas about snowmen?
Ethan: Snowmen? No.
Addy: Is Christmas about Santa?
Ethan: Santa? No.
Addy: What is Christmas about?
Ethan: Jesus? Yes.

It has been so much fun to see the excitement of this season increase as Ethan gets older. If he is this excited about the lights, music, Christmas movies, etc., can you imagine how he will be on Christmas morning?

We decided that this year we would get things done early so we could enjoy the season. We pulled out the boxes of Christmas decorations and got to work. Last year we purchased clear C-7 lights on clearance after Christmas and have been excited to put them up. Ryan tackled the ladder, clips, and lights. It was still time consuming, but was nice not to worry about hitting the wires with a staple gun. He even laid on the steep roof to make sure the lights were hung straight. They look awesome! We came up a little short and ended up having to buy 2 more strands and some replacement bulbs.

Addy and Ethan tackled the inside of the house and the ground outside. As Addy went to hang up window clings, she discovered that the windows were disgusting from our storm a few months ago. She cleaned the windows, put up window clings, set up the tree, and adorned the front yard with our Charlie Brown Christmas tree and characters.

It's so nice to have the house ready. Just a few more things to purchase and then comes the wrapping.

Waking up at 4:30 to get good deals... why not? Addy decided that it wouldn't be that big of a deal to wake up early and take advantage of some good deals. She knew that she would be able to come home and go back to bed, so it would be worth it.

She first headed to Walmart where people were already in the store and dispersed throughout with their hands on the things they wanted, waiting for store employees to announce that they could take what they wanted. We had already finished our Christmas shopping for Ethan, but there was a great deal on Mack the truck from Cars - originally $22, marked down to $10. There were also some great deals on movies, Ryan loves movies.

After observing how rude and ridiculous people can be, she headed to JoAnn's. It wasn't scheduled to open until 6:00, so she checked out Old Navy with no luck. She decided to go stand in line with all of the others (average age had to be 50!) After listening to the lady in front of her in line's life story, the doors finally opened and she got some fleece to make Ethan a blanket for $2.99 a yard (normally $7.99).

She didn't buy any of the HOT items, but saved some money. Overall, a successful shopping trip.

What a day it has been. This morning started out early for Ryan. He joined some guys from our ward and his friend David for a game of Turkey ball at the Gilbert Soccer fields. The had recently been irrigated and we have had some rain, so Ryan came home all muddy and his basketball shoes have found a new home in the trash can.

Addy and Ethan, on the other hand, enjoyed cinnamon rolls while attempting to watch the Macy's Day Parade. Have you noticed how many commercial breaks they take? It wasn't exciting enough to keep a two year olds attention, so we opted for a more exciting Playhouse Disney and Curious George. Anjie and Aidan came over to play while Addy washed and prepared the veggies for our assignments for both family dinners.

We headed to Grandpa Eric and Grandma Pat's house around 12:30. We enjoyed visiting with family, playing with cousins, and lots of yummy food. Around 4:00 we left and headed back to our house. Thankfully, Ethan dozed off in the car and got a nap while Ryan and Addy re-packed Ethan's diaper bag, made gravy, and dished up the mashed potatoes. We then headed back out to Troy and Crystal's for dinner with the Bowmans. We enjoyed some more good food, chatted, and watched all the cousins play and dress-up.

Overall the day was very busy, but not busy enough to remember why we celebrate and what we are thankful for. We have been blessed so much. We are grateful for our Heavenly Father, our elder brother and Savior, the gospel, righteous leaders of our Church, an awesome ward, family, friends, a good job, a beautiful home, reliable cars, good health, education, and last but not least each other.

Do you use Pampers Diapers? Do you participate in the Gifts to Grow program?

We have been collecting points for the program for a while. We have redeemed the points and got a few small toys for Ethan before they extended the program. Well, we now have about 136 points and found out that they are offering a new gift that we are planning on buying Ethan for Christmas. The Leap Frog Fridge Phonics. It is 175 points.


So, in our lame attempt to use our points and avoid spending $20, we were wondering for those of you who buy pampers and don't use your points... can we have them? If you want to help out, just leave the code in the comment section... it has to be approved by us, so no one else will be able to steal the code. (Who would do that?) Thanks!

Addy has started painting again, with some help from Ryan. Addy has been working on finishing unpainted trim throughout the house and Ethan's big boy room (still not an announcement, just moving him to something more age appropriate) and Ryan has been working on doors throughout the house.



With both his parents' busy painting, Ethan has been a trooper by playing with toys, watching movies, and helping out when he can. He is extremely content helping by painting with his own special cup filled with water and a small brush.

After painting most of the day Saturday, we left the paint trays in the room to dry. Ethan found the trays on Sunday and took the liberty of helping paint... white on taupe. Luckily, only the first coat had been painted.

Today we finished the feature in the room, a blue band that goes all the way around the room. We'll make sure to post more pictures when we finish it.

It is rare that Addy buys new clothes, let alone a shirt that costs $30 + extra cash for accessories. However, this new pale yellow shirt is the sexiest shirt yet.


Don't you think so?

First Presidency Urges Respect, Civility in Public Discourse
Salt Lake City - 14 November 2008

Five months ago, the First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints sent a letter to members of the Church in California, encouraging them to join the millions of other Californians from many religious denominations, ethnic groups and political persuasions in a broad coalition to defend marriage as it has been defined for millennia.

During the election campaign, both sides of the argument on Proposition 8 had ample opportunities to express their viewpoint. The result was conclusively in favor of traditional marriage. More than 40 states in the United States have now voted to protect traditional marriage, either directly or through their elected representatives.

Today the First Presidency issued this statement about the democratic process:

Since the people of California voted to reaffirm the sanctity of traditional marriage between a man and a woman on November 4, 2008, places of worship have been targeted by opponents of Proposition 8 with demonstrations and, in some cases, vandalism. People of faith have been intimidated for simply exercising their democratic rights. These are not actions that are worthy of the democratic ideals of our nation. The end of a free and fair election should not be the beginning of a hostile response in America.

The Church is keenly aware of the differences of opinion on this difficult and sensitive matter. The reasons for this principled stand in defense of marriage have already been articulated elsewhere. However, some of what we have seen since Californians voted to pass Proposition 8 has been deeply disappointing.

Attacks on churches and intimidation of people of faith have no place in civil discourse over controversial issues. People of faith have a democratic right to express their views in the public square without fear of reprisal. Efforts to force citizens out of public discussion should be deplored by people of goodwill everywhere.

We call upon those who have honest disagreements on this issue to urge restraint upon the extreme actions of a few that are further polarizing our communities and urge them to act in a spirit of mutual respect and civility towards each other.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints Newsroom

Ethan has recently been playing with our Star Wars Mr. Potato Heads - Darth Tater and Spud Trooper. The toys came with a few extra parts that he mostly plays with... eyes, nose, mouth, and ears. Tonight while sitting in the chair in his bedroom before family prayer, he pulled on his nose and said 'off'. Then he pulled on his eyelids and said 'off'. We quickly explained that he isn't like Mr. Potato Head and cannot remove his body parts. Two year olds do the funniest things.

What a sad day it was yesterday. We tried our hardest, but had a hard time not watching the tube for election results. As each state reported we cheered when our preference won, but could sadly see that it wasn't going to be enough. We were proud of John McCain... for the fight that he put up and for his closing remarks. He truly is an American Hero and it would have been awesome to see such a noble, dedicated man in office. Now, we pray... that our President Elect will uphold our Constitution and that he will lead in righteousness.


On the up side... we are ecstatic that Proposition 102 passed in Arizona!!! Even more excited that similar propositions in California and Florida passed as well. We, with many others, invested some time into educating others and we're so glad it paid off. This is only the beginning of our values being tested, but we are thrilled that this one ended with a victory.

Well, today is the day. The day that we have all been waiting for. We're all so sick of hearing ads on the radio, passing by corners covered with campaign signs, and viewing silly political ads on the tube. With all the feelings of it to be over there is also that anxiety of what the outcome may be. We have been praying that Propositions 8 in California and 102 in Arizona pass and marriage is protected and kept sacred, just as our Father in Heaven intended. We've also been praying that our Government will be upheld by a leader that believes in its values. There is so much at stake. As this day goes on... please, please continue to pray. We NEED a miracle. And miracles do happen... if we have FAITH.

Also... don't forget to VOTE!

Could it be possible that someone likes Halloween more than Addy? If you talked to Ethan this month, you would have discovered that he loves Halloween even more than his Mom. Amazing. He frequently talks about pumpkins, witches, pirates (skeletons), bats, ghosts, candy corn, and what our costumes are going to be. 'Ethan is Buzz Year, Dad is Woody, Mom is Jessie.' He even was yelling, 'MoM, MoM, MoM... JESSIE!' one day. He loves this holiday and can't get enough of the displays in the stores - even a scary clown at Party City that takes off his own head - and Halloween themed movies (Nightmare Before Christmas).


After so much anticipation the great day is finally here. We had planned to go see all of our friends at Jordan Elementary, but Ethan had a bit of a runny nose and a nap was more necessary than having fun. We spent the day finishing up costumes, finally decorating, making chili, and preparing our house for friends and family.


Last year, we decided that we would have an annual get together - low key. Good food, a chance to see everyone in costume, a little trick-or-treating, and a movie for those who decided not to venture into the night with the little goblins. It was just family last year, but we thought that it would be fun to include friends this year. We had a great turn-out and it was so fun to see all the kids in their costumes. Thanks to everyone who brought yummy food to share!


Ethan loved trick-or-treating and was more excited to ring doorbells than to get candy. He insisted on bringing Mr. Potato Head (who fit right in) and was more concerned about carrying him than his treat bag. He was so cute walking with his friends, Bryson and Grace, as they went from house to house.


We had a successful Halloween (minus the lack of Woody's boots and hats that fit) and we are already looking forward to next year. This time, Addy is going to start sewing in July!

Ryan is offically OLD! He turned 30 today and yes, we are already planning his funeral... just kidding! We had planned to have a big celebration with friends and family and of course - Guitar Hero. However, with the passing of Ryan's Grandpa, we had to re-work things a little.

Ryan decided that the best way to celebrate, with Halloween coming up and a lawn that would soon be seeded for winter grass, was just to have a small get together with a few friends. We enjoyed a BBQ dinner of burgers, potato salad, veggies, chips and soda and had fun visiting with friends. Ryan would have loved to share it with everyone, but had a good time jamming out anyway.


He also was very excited to get a new white Polo (hopefully it won't get any unfortunate stains on it from falling food), an alarm clock to replace his ancient one, Batman Legos video game (he would love for friends to come try it out with him), and lots of gift cards to cool places. Thanks to everyone who helped make his birthday a special one!

This morning came early for the Heap family. Addy and Ryan pulled themselves out of bed at 3:30AM and after showering loaded up Ethan still dressed in his pajamas, clinging to his blanket and stuffed kitty. They headed to Tempe to pick up Ryan's brother, Josh, and then made their way to the small town of St. Johns, Arizona.

St. Johns, Arizona is both the birthplace and resting place of Harbon Berry Heap, Ryan's grandfather. He passed on Oct. 16, 2008 from complications of prostate cancer.

Harbon Berry Heap was a man of incredible spiritual strength. He was a rancher, a teacher, a real estate agent and a one of kind grandpa. Life was hard when grandpa was born and he learned early to work hard and appreciate it.


We're sad to see Grandpa go but we know that one day we can see him again. Thanks grandpa for being such a wonderful man and for leaving such a tremendous legacy to follow.

Yes, we have more friends who had a baby and just like everyone else we would like to send a shout out of congrats. Ryan's good friend, Shawn, and his wife, Susie, welcomed a baby girl to their family a few weeks sooner than anticipated. We're excited for you guys and know that you'll have a blast!

Mariah Maxine Shepherd
6 lbs. 10 oz. - 19 inches

Last month Addy's sister, Anjie, won tickets to the Narnia Exhibit at the Arizona Science Center while we were at the Wescor Kids Club. She invited us to go and we found a day that would work - a day that the Dad's could come too. Addy's other sister, Alisha, has a membership and let Anjie borrow it, so we all got in for free - thanks Anjie and Alisha!


We checked out the Narnia exhibit first thing. It was cool at first, there was a wardrobe that you walked through and it was 'snowing' when you first entered Narnia. After that, there were a bunch of pictures, statues that looked like some of the creatures, clothing from the movies, a few things that you could touch, and a small catapult. Ethan and Aidan seemed to enjoy the catapult, but really didn't get into the rest of the experience. They checked out a small house and some swords. The last thing before the Gift Shop was a movie screen with clips from the next movie - both the boys really enjoyed this part. Overall, it was fair - we were all glad that we didn't have to pay for it.


Next we headed to an area that was packed with smelly Elementary school kids. We checked out a weather exhibit and a few things upstairs, but after being surrounded by kids who don't pay attention to where they're going we headed downstairs. Man, do we sound old?


Downstairs we checked out some of the psychology exhibits. Ethan had fun walking on the rubber bridge with Aidan, playing a jelly bean game on a computer, and playing with some Mega Blocks. We also checked out some of the human body exhibits. Ethan and Aidan had fun throwing balls into a giant nose. It was fun to explore the museum, but we would definitely recommend avoiding it on field trip days.

After the museum, we headed to Barro's for some pizza and let the boys play for a while. After a few incidents, the boys had fun playing with dinosaurs and riding on a dump truck. It was a fun morning - thanks Anjie, Daniel & Aidan for inviting us to go!

Last week we had offered a trip to the Zoo to our friends, Christina and Emerson. Unfortunately, Addy had to babysit our nieces and couldn't go. We gave Christina a rain check and went today while the weather was still nice. We love going to the Zoo and Ethan loves to walk, walk, and walk. Christina and Emerson are the perfect kind of friends to take - they didn't care where we went or how long we stayed at each exhibit.

This time we went a different route than we typically do and enjoyed a new view of the Elephants and the Monkey exhibit. For some reason, Ethan really wanted to see the Lions and the owls.




We had a great time with the Harrisons and hope that we can take more trips to the Zoo this year... if it ever cools down.

Ethan has also discovered our light sabers - his favorite scene in Episode 1 is the fight between Darth Maul, Qui-Gon, and Obi-Wan.


At first we only showed him one, but then he started calling the baseball bat a light saber so we pulled out the second one.



He is increasingly vicious with his attacks.


Watch out Dad!

After the Saturday morning session of Conference there was an ad for a DVD about Mormon Myths. You know, those stories that have been passed on and changed each time or if Steve Martin is a member of the Church? The best one is that Yoda was based off of the 12th President of the Church, Spencer W Kimball. Here's a new one... was Darth Vader a member of the Church? With Ethan's recent interest in Star Wars, we have been pulling things out for him. The latest is a Darth Vader helmet that Ryan got for Christmas two years ago. When we have shown it to him before, he only wants us to wear it. He got over his fear and this is him on Sunday after Church.

Ahh, Halloween is coming and it is time to prepare for the festivities. We've got most of the materials we need, but didn't find any yellow and red plaid fabric. A little extra work, but it will be worth it. Oh, how I love this holiday!
~Addy

Lunch at Cafe Rio and feeding the ducks at Freestone; an ideal way to celebrate. Our friend Christina was having a birthday, so we (Addy and Natalie) thought that it would be fun to celebrate our amazingly talented friend. We enjoyed some delicious food, laughed at the different personalities of our boys, and chatted. Thanks to Ryan - he forgot to put the twisty tie on the loaf of bread and it ended up on the floor - we got to go feed the ducks. Bryson and Ethan had fun throwing the bread in the water, running up and down the hills, watching a crane, and exploring. It was beautiful outside and we enjoyed the afternoon. Happy Birthday Christina - thanks for being such a wonderful friend and great example to us!

Do you think that Noah remembered to take two of each letter of the alphabet?

Conference weekend quickly approached and we headed out early Friday morning with Addy's mom, Louise, to venture up to Utah for the glorious occasion and to spend time with the Isom's, Addy's oldest sister and her family. Before we got married we started making the trek and have continued to do so, except for last year - Addy excitedly purchased tickets to a TMBG concert and then realized it was the same weekend, ugh! We decided to leave early, hoping that Ethan would sleep part of the trip. The DVD player was purposefully not set up and we prepared cozy accommodations - monkey neck pillow, blankets, and Lightening McQueen pajamas - to help Ethan get some sleep. The little stinker sat quietly the whole way to Flagstaff, got a power nap on Highway 14 (he missed all the beautiful yellow, orange, red, and purple changing leaves - good thing Grandma took about 200 pictures), and stayed awake the rest of the way to Salt Lake. This was our first road trip back to Utah since Ethan was just 2 months old, so it took us much longer than before. We arrived at the Isom's gorgeous home around 6:00pm, enjoyed a delicious dinner, and then headed to Alyssa and Kenna's Young Women's volleyball game. Ryan was beat and stayed at the house to get a jump on sleep. Ethan had fun playing with a balloon and basketballs with his cousins, Jace and Tate. After the game, we headed back and enjoyed some chocolate cake - Ally always spoils us with yummy things to eat when we come - and then to bed. However, Ethan did not want to go to sleep. After his bath, he wanted to play and ride in the car? You would think that after sitting in the car for 13 long hours he would have had enough. Everyone else had settled into bed while Addy was tackling a screaming 2 year old. She decided to try the driving around trick and it worked - he was out in about 2 minutes!

Saturday morning we woke up to drizzling rain and low temperatures - relief for those who stuck out three months of triple digit temperatures. We enjoyed playing fooze ball and air hockey, chatting with family, watching Conference, and seeing how the Isom kids mature from year to year while watching Conference - 'MOM... he's staring at me!' The boys; Eric, Ryan and Jace, headed to the Priesthood session of Conference, Ally and Louise went for a drive on the new Legacy highway, Alyssa and Kenna were given chores, and Tate was happily playing Star Wars Legos, so Addy and Ethan went to burn some energy at Target (Ethan's favorite place to go). After bath time and the boys got in bed, we watched Iron Man and then off to bed.

Sunday morning, Ryan and Addy woke up super early to go to the morning session of Conference. For some reason, we have always been privileged to get tickets to this session of Conference which also includes Music and the Spoken Word. We arrived early in the cool temperatures of the morning with more drizzling rain and were able to sit the closest we have ever been able to. We were in the terrace section, but on the far right side in the corner of the Conference Center. Not the best seats, but fun to be able to see so many noble men. At one point, the Mormon Tabernacle Choir was singing and Ryan noticed that Elder Uctdorf was tapping his foot to the music. After a long trip, it can be challenging to keep your eyes open while sitting still for 3 hours, but we managed... most of the time. It was awesome to hear inspired words from our leaders and our prophet - when you hear him speak; you know that he has been called by God. While we attended the morning session of Conference, the Isom's watched over Ethan... thanks for letting us go on a 'date'. We headed back to the house and enjoyed leftover homemade clam chowder for lunch, put Ethan down for a 'nap' (he ended up playing quietly in Kenna's room), and watched the afternoon session of Conference (Addy enjoyed the inside of her eyelids sometime during the second hour). Addy finished the inspection of her eyelids while Ryan and the boys went to a park down the street. We enjoyed a scrumptious meal of manicotti prepared by Chef Ally and then went to see Uncle Kent, Louise's older brother, and his family. We had a fun time seeing how much Addy's cousin’s kids have grown, visiting, and catching up. We finished off the night with Lemon cake that Tate made covered with homemade whipped cream and strawberries.

We decided to get some rest and planned on leaving the Isom's around 7:00 or 8:00am. It worked out perfectly, as we got to see everyone before they left for school or work. They are always so willing to have us come and sacrifice so much - thank you Isom's and know that you are welcome at our home anytime! We had a pretty uneventful ride home and enjoyed the leaves and SNOW on Highway 14. We were making good time and Ethan actually fell asleep for a while, so we booked it down the road. We made it back to Tempe around dinner time and gave Ethan a chance to play with AnaLyn while we all enjoyed some Pei Wei. We loaded Ethan back up in the car, picked up Ryan's van from a co-worker, and started unpacking. It was a whirlwind of a trip, but always worth it! Spending time with family and hearing inspired words from humble servants of our Lord - it doesn't get any better than that!