David, Heidi, Gabby, & Jacob

The Duck . . . revisited

2011-01-01T23:15:00.000-08:00

When Gabby was a baby, she giggled and giggled the first time she saw this duck (go back a few years and you'll find the video). This one doesn't actually show how much Jacob giggled when Gabby first showed it to him -- what can I say -- his sister likes to steal the show. But there are a few cute giggles in there, and look who learned to crawl in December! Thanks Aunt Lyndsey . . . the duck is still a big winner!

Kissin' Cousins

2010-12-28T22:57:00.000-08:00

Gabby and Jackson are best buddies. She loves all of her cousins -- but she definitely has a special connection with Jackson.

Gotta love kissin' cousins!

More Holiday Fun!

2010-12-28T22:40:00.000-08:00

After Christmas, we made a trip to the Gateway museum and Temple Square Christmas lights with some of Dave's family. Gabby sure loves her cousins!

Serious skills!
Gabby and her best friend Bailey on TRAX to Temple Square
Jacob at Temple Square (sleeping . . . again)

Christmas Day 2010

2010-12-25T22:33:00.000-08:00

Christmas morning 2010 -- don't you love our beautiful princess!

Life is full of so many fun "firsts" for an almost 3 year old :)

Our tree and stockings this year.

Jacob's Toys (how pathetic that my only pictures are before he ever saw them!)

Gabby's toys
(I promise, there are videos with Jacob in them -- note to self -- take more still pictures on Christmas morning in the future!)

December Party Fun!

2010-12-15T21:49:00.000-08:00

Cousins at the BYU Christmas party

We had lots of fun Christmas parties throughout December (At one point we even had about 60 people in our home for an extended family party!), and even took a few pictures. Gabby is always giving us her cheesiest "fake" smile it seems, and it appears that all of the excitement wore poor Jacob out because he's asleep in most of them! It's so fun to see so many friends and family throughout the holiday season (and it's so good when it's all over and life calms down a bit!). Here are just a few highlights!

Gabby and the girl cousins bowling (and having a grand ole' time!)

Jacob "Bowling"

Ice Cream with the whole crew after bowling

Bailey

2010-12-06T22:04:00.000-08:00

Gabby has gotten to be such a big girl -- so big that she decided she could give up her binky (pacifier). We talked about it for a couple of weeks (okay -- more like months) to get her used to the idea. Then, on the morning of December 6, 2010, she wrapped her binkies in a present to send to Santa so he could give them to babies who didn't have any, and put it in the mailbox.
That evening, just as she finished putting on her pajamas, we heard the doorbell. What could it be??? A present, just for Gabby, from Santa!
And that is how Bailey joined our family (and he/she -- depending on the day -- has been a constant companion ever since!). Bailey got her name immediately after coming out of her "fruit snack box." (Gabby thought Santa was so silly for wrapping her in a fruit snack box.) We had recently watched a film called "Bailey the Lost Puppy." When Gabby pulled her doggy out she said, "Bailey the lost puppy! Santa found him and brought him to me!"
Gabby did really well giving up her "babink" as she called it. She had trouble falling asleep for a few nights. But she tried really hard to sleep, and didn't do much crying at all! And now, she sleeps better than ever (with Bailey in her arms of course)!

Christmas Card 2010

2010-12-01T21:42:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas – The ElHalta’s – 2010

Our family has been so blessed this year! Jacob David ElHalta was born April 16, 2010 and joined our family through adoption the next day. He is such a sweet, happy boy and brings so much joy to our home. We also love our new home in South Jordan and plan to stay a long time!

Dave is still enjoying his job at the University of Utah Hospital Pharmacy and especially loves his new summer hobby – working in the garden and yard (where he grew lots of wonderful veggies this year).

Heidi loves being able to stay home with her two great kids (and that seems to be all she gets done . . . which is okay for now)!

Gabby is nearly three and keeps us busy. She loves to talk and sing and has an incredible imagination. Her stuffed doggies and kitties are her best friends in the whole world and they can play together for hours (which Mommy loves)!

Jacob is eight months old and learned to crawl the same week the ornaments went on the Christmas tree. He is the happiest baby alive and has smiles and giggles for everyone (though he’s recently discovered a little temper).

Jacob's Sealing

2010-11-06T20:46:00.000-07:00

Jacob was sealed to us in the Jordan River Temple on November 6, 2010. It was such a neat day. We have chosen to have each of our children sealed to us in the temple district that we currently live in, so each will have their own special temple (Gabby is Las Vegas, and now Jacob is Jordan River).
Jacob was so sweet for the ceremony. He was his normal busy self and looked so cute in his white outfit. Gabby was super cute too -- it was fun to have her understand just a little of what was going on. She loved her white dress. As she came into the sealing room, her Dad told her to go sit with her grandma. She got big eyes and suddenly said, "I have 4 Grandmas here!" Afterwards, she was talking to the temple helper who led her back to the children's room and was telling her about "all her family!" that was there. But her favorite was probably the giant doll house in the Youth Center, "with two staircases!"

We are so grateful to all of the friends and family who made the trip to be with us for this special occasion.

Halloween 2010

2010-10-31T20:39:00.000-07:00

Despite the rain, we had a fabulous time on Halloween, visiting both sets of Grandparents and lots of cousins!

Gabby and Jacob were Dora the Explorer and her best friend, Boots the Monkey. We love Dora around our house (even Jacob loves to watch -- shame on me :).

Doesn't her face say it all!

The four boys -- four boy cousins all born within 3 months. So much to look forward to!
(Guess I should explain -- the swimmer is Michael Phelps -- and the Small Fry's big brother was a hamburger -- and you just have to love the tiger's grin! He is the baby of the group -- too cute!)

The Witches at Gardner Village

2010-10-21T20:35:00.000-07:00

For several years I've wanted to see the witches at Gardner Village. So this year, encouraged by amazing warm weather, we met Grandma and the cousins and explored! We didn't worry about checking off the list and identifying each witch -- but just let the kids run and enjoy the gorgeous weather! We even went to a park afterward to continue the running and playing! Fun cousins!

Jacob's Adoption Finalization

2010-10-20T20:29:00.000-07:00

On October 20th, we were able to finalize Jacob's adoption at the Matheson courthouse in Salt Lake City. The judge invited us back to his chambers which made it seem very small and friendly. It was at the crack of dawn (8 am) -- the first case of the day and Heidi's Mom and Dave's sister both came to support us. I can hardly believe that Jacob is 6 months old -- where did the time go? We are so blessed to have him be part of our family!

Our caseworker, Loni, and attorney Mark.

The honorable judge Tyrone Medley

The support crew!

Wheeler Farm

2010-10-16T20:17:00.000-07:00

We went to Wheeler Farm around Halloween with lots of cousins. Gabby was in heaven being surrounded by them all! She loves her cousins!

Lots of fun with the corn maze (perfect for little kids), the animals, the hayride, and the pumpkin patch!

And everyone was exhausted by the end :).

The Fire Station

2010-10-11T22:44:00.000-07:00

My friend Polli runs a little playgroup and we had the chance to go to the fire station. First the kids watched a fun, interactive presentation with puppets, songs, and lots of interaction. Gabby was entranced. Then we moved on to the really fun parts!

Gabby the ham!

Gabby loves to play with Katie -- she plays better with her than anyone else. So fun that she is adopted too!

A Princess Party

2010-10-09T22:29:00.000-07:00

(click on image to enlarge)

A friend in our ward hosts a "Princess Party" each year for her grandkids. She invites the little girls in the neighborhood to come and enjoy as well! It was amazing. The entire basement was transformed into a castle wonderland. The girls had a chance to meet and take pictures with each of the Disney princesses, meet the King, slay a dragon with a bow and arrow, play in the giant cardboard castle, and get their own balloon animal made by the court jester. Gabby was in heaven (and had her biggest cheesy smile on cue).

And of course, Jakey got to be in on the fun as well :)

More Giggles . . .

2010-09-29T22:23:00.000-07:00

Jacob loves to smile and laugh more than any other baby I've seen. He is certainly a charmer! And if you ask him, his sister Gabby is the funniest person on earth!

Autumn Colors

2010-09-24T22:09:00.000-07:00

Many moons ago (September 24th to be exact), we made the pilgrimage to the Alpine Loop and Cascade Springs. This drive and walk are one of my favorite places in the whole world. It was so fun to see Gabby's excitement for the beautiful fall leaves and fun boardwalk. She proved herself to be quite the hiker as well!

A Neighborhood Walk . .

2010-09-11T21:11:00.000-07:00

Gabby and I took our "babies" for a walk around the neighborhood on Labor Day while Daddy was working. I had to deliver some fliers for Relief Society. I never would have believed a two year old could be a big help but she put fliers on about half of the doors and we took turns staying with Jacob on the driveways.

Pausing for a moment to feed her baby.

When did my baby get so big?!

Zucchini Bread (and more Zucchini Bread)

2010-09-08T21:02:00.000-07:00

We have lots of zucchini at our house (and we only have one plant!). So, in efforts to use it, I've made zucchini bread several times. Gabby loves it! She would probably eat enough to make herself sick if I would let her. So, we decided to make some together. I don't let her cook with me nearly enough . . . we had a great time!Stirring

Sampling

More Sampling . . .

Yummy finished product

And yet . . . MORE SAMPLING! :)

Jumpin' Jumpin' Jumpin'!

2010-09-08T20:56:00.000-07:00

Jacob is getting so big so fast! Here's just a cute little video that shows his favorite new toy and his cute smiles and personality :).

Jacob's First Haircut

2010-08-04T14:19:00.001-07:00

Before pictures (love the rooster tail -- it really would NEVER lay down!)

Jacob had his first haircut at 3 months -- and it was a "real" one! Grandma DD cut it all over -- around his ears, but especially the rooster tail on top :). Jacob has the cutest hair, and tons of it -- but it refuses to lay down on top. Maybe next time, Dad will just give him a buzz -- since it ends up looking like one anyway!

Here is Grandma DD cutting his hair (we'd been canning apricot nectar and all looked really cute -- I don't think Grandma would let me get away with posting a picture of more of her :) ).

Our little man with his new do!

First Giggles

2010-07-20T22:06:00.001-07:00

Jacob has given a few little giggles over the last few weeks, but this video captures the first time he really laughed. He had the giggles! He will still giggle a little more now, but apparently there is nothing like the first time :). That said, Aunt Beth came back to visit again tonight and the first thing he did when she talked to him . . . he giggled! Aunt Beth has the magic.

Seriously Six Months?

2010-07-20T21:58:00.000-07:00

I can't believe I haven't posted anything since Gabby's 2nd birthday in January. What was I thinking!? I always have great intentions of being better about posting after a big catch up session -- and now I have even more motivation to do so because I have not only one adorable Gabby girl to document, but our sweet little Jacob.

That's right! For those who only keep up with us through our blog -- Jacob David ElHalta was born on April 16, 2010. He's now 3 months old and so much fun! Now for the updates for all of you -- especially our wonderful birthmothers Tamara, and now Kaila too!

Gabby is 2 -- Happy Birthday!

2010-02-15T20:56:00.000-08:00

I can hardly believe that my baby is 2! Gabby is such a fun, crazy, chatty, singing girl. She brings so much love and fun to our family. She keeps us constantly busy and constantly entertained. She is 3 feet tall and weighs 37 lbs. We love you Gabby!Gabby wanted a Minnie Mouse cake (well, she originally said Mickey, but we helped her decide on Minnie). Daddy did the drawing and Mom did the baking and icing. (Word to the wise -- when making black icing -- start with chocolate. I started with white and it took so much food coloring to make black icing -- it tasted like ink -- yuck! Sure was cute though!)

Gabby, opening presents with lots of cousin help.

Gabby's birthmother sent her gloves, a wand, and a princess book. What an adorable princess :). A month later, the princess book is still one of the favorites . . . she plays the music over, and over, and over again!

Gabby received a table and chairs from Mom and Dad. It has provided many hours of entertainment. Here, her cousin Anna helped her set up her first tea party with her new table :).

Pictures

2010-02-15T09:20:00.000-08:00

On Gabby's 2nd birthday (Jan. 15th), we had her picture taken, along with family pictures. She was so good for the pictures (especially when the photographer decided to pull in the couch from the hallway -- which Gabby wouldn't leave alone). Enjoy!

First Haircut -- and Broadway here we come!

2010-01-16T22:53:00.000-08:00

Gabby had her first haircut on Thursday, the day before her second birthday. It was not a major cut by any means, just a trim to shape it and make it all the same length. It did a great job of perking up her pretty curls (which makes it look much shorter . . . though it's really not); but most importantly, she behaved fabulously! Dave came with me (for backup) and we had no clue how things would go. Sometimes changing a diaper can be an olympic event around here . . . but I think she actually enjoyed this!
Can you believe how long her hair is?!
The water bottle -- the real means of ensuring compliance. She even tilted her head where directed, etc. (sort of -- she is barely 2)
Checking out the new do!

And next, Broadway here we come! Gabby loves to sing. We used singing as entertainment in the chair and took advantage of the opportunity to record her singing her two favorite songs (both to the same tune of course). Sometimes she does a better job of getting them correct all the way through, but I don't think they ever get any cuter :).

Twinkle Star

ABC's

Christmas Morning

2010-01-16T21:29:00.000-08:00

Can you believe we didn't take a single snapshot on Christmas morning?!? Luckily, Grandpa J came to visit and took a few so check back to see if I add some in later! We did take video with our new video camera . . . which we are still trying to figure out how to edit and put on the blog. So again . . check later.

We had a wonderful Christmas morning. It was so fun to wake up in our own beds (we've always traveled to Utah to be with family in the past), do things at our own speed, and most of all, have Gabby who was nearly two and old enough to get excited about Christmas and presents!

Santa brought Gabby a bike (trike), a baby, lots of books, and other fun stuff. She was spoiled by everyone and loved every minute of it. She loved telling people she got a "bike" -- though I think it will be enjoyed much more come spring, and the new books and puzzles have brought hours of entertainment.

Later that day we went and spent time with Dave's family for dinner and then stopped at Heidi's parents on the way home (though we missed all of the cousins by about 10 minutes). It was a fabulous day and the most relaxing Christmas we've had in years (probably because we started and ended the day in our own beds!).

How grateful we are to be close to family at this special time of year. We're so grateful for the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ, that we celebrate, and the opportunity we have to teach our beautiful little Gabby about Him and His sacrifice for us.

Merry Christmas everyone!

Christmas Eve

2010-01-16T21:19:00.000-08:00

We had Christmas Eve with Dave's family and Gabby participated in her first reenactment of the Nativity. She was the angel (of course . . . . how appropriate . . . not?). She was adorable and loved her little costume. Her cousins were a little distracted by the angel buzzing all around the room, and she didn't stay in one place long enough to make it into very many pictures, but it was great fun.Our reluctant angelStealing the Wise Man's crownParty Pajamas with Aunt Boo and Aunt BethKissin' Cousins -- Too cute!

A Sleigh Ride and More

2010-01-16T19:05:00.001-08:00

We had Christmas parties 6 nights in a row before Christmas. Crazy fun! For Heidi's family party, we began with a "sleigh" (wagon) ride. It was so fun. We weren't even too cold because we were so cozy all together!

And by the end . . . we were tired!

We were actually all looking for Gabby outside, and this is where we found her :).We played with Play-doh . .
Decorated cookies . .
Dressed up with all of the new fun stuff Grandma got for Christmas,
and danced (but the only pictures were of adults . . . not so cute). Thanks Grandma and Grandpa for such a fun and memorable party!

Here's a little bonus -- Gabby's version of "Jingle Bells!"

Big girl bed

2010-01-16T19:00:00.001-08:00

Gabby learned how to jump out of her crib (literally). It was a bit risky, so we decided it was time to graduate to a "big girl bed." It's been a bit of an adjustment, but we're hoping things are settling in now. She still has a bit of trouble staying in her bed all night, but at least she falls asleep in bed instead of in front of the door! She's just getting too big!
First successful video posted from our new video camera! (It works even better in the light :)).

The Big 4-0!

2010-01-10T20:56:00.000-08:00

Dave turned 40 and we had a big birthday bash with friends and family. (Doesn't he look cute? I love this picture.)

My sister-in-law Lyndsey created this fabulous cake, while I stood by and pretended to help.My sister-in-law Jessica headed up the kitchen and created a wonderful spread with sushi (Dave's favorite) and lots of other goodies.
Dave's Mom and sister Bonnie helped with food as well and my Mom and sister Natalie prepared the "venue." I would be a horrible party planner and executor if it weren't for my amazing family. Thanks guys! Enjoy the collages below (click to make them bigger).

Snow! Gabby's first time ever.

2009-12-30T19:23:00.000-08:00

Gabby's first adventures with snow. Thanks to Anna and Benji who made it such a fun experience (while Mom sat inside and stayed warm). Notice the ruby red cheeks, nose and mouth? Apparently, eating snow is worth the pain!

Ice Cream Bandit

2009-12-30T14:50:00.000-08:00

It was suddenly quiet . . . too quiet. When I called, "Gabby, what are you doing?" She replied, "Ice cream Mom!" I had no idea . . . until I turned the corner. It's times like these, I'm grateful I thought to take a picture, before I attacked the mess. Any ideas for locking the freezer?

Potty Time?

2009-12-30T14:45:00.001-08:00

Too funny not to share. Unfortunately, the fascination didn't last very long. Maybe later :). As for the love affair with Mickey Mouse, it continues as passionately as ever.

Thanksgiving

2009-12-30T13:57:00.000-08:00

We had Thanksgiving with Grandma DD, Grandpa J and all of my siblings and their kids this year. It's only the 2nd time in the last 6 years that we've been in Utah for Thanksgiving and we loved it! Of course, we missed the annual tradition of heating the pool and hot tub for Thanksgiving, but we survived.

I have very few pictures of the day. I think I spent most of it chasing Gabby around. But, her pumpkin pie pictures really say it all for Thanksgiving Day don't they? (And Grandma DD makes the best pumpkin pie in the world.)This was a mural we made during a Family Home Evening earlier in the month. We all drew pictures of all the things we're thankful for. Then, they hung it up on the windows Thanksgiving Day. It was a fun way to remember all of the things we're thankful for.

Fall Fun

2009-12-30T10:42:00.001-08:00

When we weren't sick (3 ear infections and misc. other stuff),

our first six weeks or so in Utah were lots of fun!

We played in the park with cousins,and stole tomatoes from Aunt Heather's pantry (multiple times).
We watched BYU beat the U in the football game :)
And Grandma DD read Olive and me stories.
We love living close to family in Utah!

Halloween (Finally!)

2009-12-30T10:27:00.000-08:00

Be sure to click on the picture to view it larger!

Hey, better late than never, right? We had so much fun on Halloween. Grandma DD and Grandpa J raked all of their leaves together so the kids could play in them. Gabby thought she was in heaven. Thanks to our fun cousin Anna who is always willing to play and make things fun for the little ones!
Gabby was our little princess (in tennis shoes) for Halloween (because the BYU cheerleader outfit I had planned -- hand-me-down from a cousin -- was too small). She was just interested in the candy, and avoiding anyone who looked remotely scary.
Here are all the fun cousins from Mommy's side. Thanks for a fun day Grandma and Grandpa!

The Story of our move . . .

2009-11-23T21:02:00.000-08:00

I'm sure many of you are wondering how we ended up moving to Utah so suddenly? Me too! No seriously, ever since we came back from our vacation to Utah this summer, Dave and I started talking more and more about moving "home." Usually, after vacation, we were excited to go back to our own home and our lives. But this year, we were homesick for family when we got back. We've talked about it for years, but it was getting close to the right time.

That said, we didn't really think it was possible with the real estate market what it is in Vegas. However, the end of August, we decided to put our house on the market and see what happened. We were not prepared for what came next! We didn't realize that homes that are not a short sale or foreclosure were in such high demand. Four days later we were under contract and 3 weeks later we closed on our house. Dave started hunting madly for a job in Utah. It took a little longer than was comfortable, but in the end he had several good job leads and is loving his new job in a hospital pharmacy. It has been a good move for our family.
The move was crazy, as I'm sure all moves are. Thanks to my mom, my sister Natalie, and Dave's sister Bonnie, we were able to get the house packed and ready before truck loading day, October 11th.
Thanks to Dave F., Joey and Dad for coming to help move (and bringing an extra trailer and truck!). With their help and the Elder's Quorum from church, the truck was pretty well loaded by noon. Dad headed on his way to Utah and the rest of us went to sushi one last time before going to the BYU vs. UNLV football game (tickets bought before there was any intention of moving). We had a bit of last minute packing and cleanup the next morning but got out the door, leaving our very empty house, and arrived in Utah by about 6 pm. More thanks to all of our family who helped us unload that night and the next couple of days.
It took us about a week to settle into Dave and Heather's basement. We'll probably be here for about 6 months or so while we figure out exactly where we want to buy a home (and save a bit more for a downpayment). Our "accomodations" are awesome and we're loving all of the company, especially Gabby. She calls them them "Mommy Heather" and "Daddy Dave"and loves her cousins, especially "Pencer" (Spencer) who told everyone that he has a new baby at his house named Gabby (They act like siblings already -- can't bear to be without each other, but are picking on each other most of the time).
We've loved spending so much time with our families . . . and getting to go home to our own beds at the end of the night. Let the new adventures begin . . .

Moving . . .

2009-10-01T23:24:00.000-07:00

It's true. We're moving to Utah. In fact, we're leaving in just over a week! I realized that I'd never posted anything here and wanted a way to let all of my blogging friends know. It happened really fast (because our house sold so quickly -- we've been trying to catch our breath ever since). We're excited to move closer to family, but will miss all of our wonderful friends in Las Vegas!

Swimming

2009-09-20T22:33:00.000-07:00

When Gabby took swimming lessons earlier in the year, it was my goal that she'd be able to swim to the wall by the end of the summer. I'm not sure she'd have the sense to make it back to the wall if she fell in, but she's sure come a long way. She loves to swim and keeps us on our toes when we're in the pool!

(A short explanation: Gabby loves to pretend sneeze and wait for us to say "bless you." She had been doing it a moment before and I thought it might be a fun chance to catch more than one thing in a video. Better luck next time!)

Visitors

2009-09-20T22:20:00.000-07:00

Uncle Nathan, Aunt Jess, and cousin Tyler all came to visit a week ago. We ate lots of good food (sushi, Thai, and then our own homemade Arabic spread),

played in the pool,

visited the Lied Children's Museum,

and made some music of our own!

All dressed up

2009-09-20T22:18:00.000-07:00

This is too cute not to share :). We went to visit my friend Janet and they had lots of dress-ups (and sent us home with the cute dress in the picture and a bigger one for later). Gabby loved the hats, jewelry, clothes (and of course the phone). We sure love our little lady!

Shoes

2009-09-20T22:06:00.000-07:00

Gabby loves shoes . . . any shoes. It's amazing how well she's mastered her Daddy's size 13's!

Updates

2009-08-13T23:45:00.000-07:00

I think I'm finally sort of caught up on blogging (we'll just forget the many months I never posted anything). I tried to put most of the entries in rough chronological order so there are a few further down the page. Thanks Mel for the inspiration to get in and get it done, even if it's late :)

Monkey Business

2009-08-13T23:34:00.000-07:00

Just a few fun pictures of Gabby's recent escapades!

So, in an attempt to curb the desire to climb furniture (such as the piano), we found a fun yard sale and brought home some backyard entertainment!

Okay, so our new toys don't really calm the indoor monkey,
but they sure are fun!

Chicken Pox & Dora

2009-08-13T23:20:00.000-07:00

"Cheese!" -- Gabby's new favorite word when a camera is in her face.
Always with the same expression :)

Notice my sad chin, nose, and two on the cheek :(

Yes, it's true. Gabby got a mild case of the chicken pox. How, you ask? Most embarrassing, but she got them from me! I had shingles in July (nice addition to my Utah trip), and though she was even vaccinated, they showed up several weeks later. Thanks to said vaccination, it was a super mild case (8 pox in all with no fever or other obvious signs -- except an extra dose of grumpy).

I'm not sure if it was due to not feeling well or if our Gabby girl is just growing up, but last week she also decided that she could actually sit still long enough to watch an entire show. I'm also unclear as to how she chose "Dora the Explorer" as her favorite (it's not mine!). Perhaps she got the idea from her Dora chair -- her favorite place to sit when she is enjoying Dora, Boots, and Swiper ("Wiper"). Dora has become my daily dose of sanity (translation -- super high speed get things done around the house time). I always said I didn't want TV to be a babysitter. I've changed my mind . . . in small amounts, that's exactly what I want it to be!

Go Go Doggies...

2009-08-02T20:57:00.000-07:00

Gabby's new favorite book has lots of dogs in it.

Grandparents

2009-07-27T23:10:00.000-07:00

I'm lucky enough to have 3 grandparents still living and we had a great visit with my dad's parents while we were in Utah. It was so nice to sit and relax in their beautiful backyard and chat. I'm grateful Gabby has so many people to love her!

Fun with the water fountain

Bringing some water to share . . .

with Grandpa!

Snake River

2009-07-27T23:00:00.000-07:00

For the first time in four years, we made it my family's Snake River rafting/camping trip. It was Gabby's first camping experience and she loved the rocks, dirt, sticks, and the cousins! Sleeping in the tent . . . well, she wasn't quite so fond of that! It made for a few long nights and we gave up one night early. Hopefully we'll do better next year. :)

Chillin' in the campground

These pictures are part of our crew, with my brother Nathan rowing. I don't have any pictures of my trips down -- though I was lucky enough to get three!

Girlfriend's Get Together

2009-07-17T22:54:00.000-07:00

Heidi, Tricia, Holly, Rebecca, Andrea

It's been over 5 years since we've had a chance to really sit down and chat! These are my girlfriends from Jr. High & High School (okay -- some since Elementary School!). It was so fun to sit and visit for hours and catch up. I left feeling so grateful that I had such wonderful friends growing up. It's so easy to be a good kid when you have good friends! I can't wait to visit again -- for longer, and with Mickel next time too! (KaLani made it to the reunion but left before pictures :( ).

Discovery Children's Museum with Friends

2009-07-16T22:37:00.000-07:00

While in Utah, we met our friends the Larsens at the Discovery Children's Museum in the Gateway Mall. Apparently I didn't take very many pictures! We sure had a wonderful time though, and there was endless entertainment for Gabby and the other kids. Thanks for playing Larsens!

Say "Cheese!"

18 Months!

2009-07-16T13:11:00.000-07:00

I can hardly believe Gabby turned 18 months old on Wednesday, July 15th. She's so much fun and has so much energy (way more than we have!). My Aunt Karen took some photos of her and here are a few of my favorites. She hasn't had a chance to crop or photoshop any of them yet but I think we can get a good one to hang on the wall -- now . . which one to pick!
I love these curls!

Stealing Grandpa's apples

First Ice Cream Cone

2009-07-13T21:00:00.000-07:00

I know, I can hardly believe it was her first ice cream cone either. We must be depriving her :). She sure enjoyed it though!

Family Reunion No. 1

2009-07-09T13:38:00.000-07:00

Dave's family had a reunion beginning on the 4th of July. We had a great time visiting with farm animals, playing with cousins, swimming, and exploring lots of new places. Our camera didn't make it out nearly as often as it should have, but here are a few highlights.

Sheep at This is the Place Heritage Park --

Gabby loves the "baaas" -- especially Cocoa at Grandma Valerie's!

This is the Place Park -- Pony Ride (Okay, she liked it until it moved!)

Tag with Zack

Hannah was a star -- spending lots of time entertaining and playing with Gabby!

This one is just too cute. Walking with Daddy on the farm.

dessert

2009-06-14T20:28:00.000-07:00

A Pool Fence . . . and the benefits!

2009-06-10T14:11:00.000-07:00

We finally invested in a pool fence. I wish we'd done it a year ago! Not only does it extend the footprint of our house, because Gabby can finally go out there and wander, but she's found so many new things to love!

Dirt, rocks, and . . .

more dirt!

Fun with Friends in Fort Lauderdale!

2009-05-25T21:38:00.001-07:00

We went to Ft. Lauderdale to visit our "old friends" Dave and Polli.

We had a wonderful time staying up late and visiting. One night we got a babysitter and all enjoyed an evening on the water at a fabulous seafood restaurant. We even had to take a water taxi to get there!

But one of the best parts is that our girls, Kaitlyn and Gabby, became "new friends". Kaitie and Gabby had a blast playing together over the three days. I was amazed how well they did -- considering how young they are. Gabby turned 16 months while we were there and Kaitlyn is almost exactly a year older than her (though they are about the same size).We had so much fun playing in the pool,
the little water park,
the sand

(yum, yum! -- click on the picture to see the fun details of the extras Gabby got with her cheese stick!)

and the waves.

Gabby loved the ocean! She giggled and giggled, and tried to escape and run into the waves. At one point, she got away and a big wave knocked her down and rolled her up the shore. She came out of the wave . . . . giggling! She has no fear (well, except of the shower and sprinklers -- but that's another story).

We even took an evening stroll along the beach our last night there.
Thanks Dave, Polli, and Kaitlyn for letting us come and for showing us a wonderful time. We can't wait to see you again this summer!

Birthmother's Day

2009-05-09T20:25:00.000-07:00

Birthmother's Day is always the Saturday before Mother's Day. It was such a fun and special day this year because Gabby and I just happened to be in Phoenix for my Uncle John's funeral. Though it was a sad occasion, we took the opportunity to visit with Tamara and Jack for a couple of hours. It was fun to see their new house and visit. Gabby loved their kitty cats and their piano -- and of course loved all of the attention.

Thanks for the fun visit Tamara and Jack! We love you!

Fun with our friends the Larsens!

2009-04-26T20:59:00.000-07:00

Our friends the Larsens came to visit for Spring Break. They used to live just across the street and we miss them! It was so fun to play at the park and in the pool, and just visit late into the evening. We love you guys!

Fun times at the park!
(Top left, left to right: Madison, Cael, Jono, Gabby, Blake)

Fun times in the pool (don't you love the fake cry -- I want my Mommy :) )

Swimming Lessons

2009-04-25T14:33:00.000-07:00

Gabby started swimming lessons Monday, April 20th. She cried the first day -- she was a bit unsure of the teacher and being in the water without Mommy. But she has loved every day since! Yes, she's a bit young -- but she loves the water and with a pool in the backyard, we figure she can't start too young learning how to get back to the wall and crawl out of the pool. It's amazing to see how much she has progressed in just 5 days. She understands when to pull her arms (which comes off a little more as splashing, but she's trying :), and when to kick, etc. She loves to hum and put her face in the water and play games with her teacher, Dominique. We have one more week and I'm excited to see how much more she'll learn.

Nathan, Jessica, and Tyler came to visit

2009-04-12T20:54:00.000-07:00

We love visitors. It's always fun to have people stay with us because we get their undivided attention. When we visit in Utah, it's always crazy trying to see everyone. Nate, Jess, and Ty came to see us the end of March. It was primarily a food vacation -- sushi twice and Thai food once. But hey! -- that's why we love Vegas so much :). And we snuck in some fun for the kids too -- an Easter egg hunt at the park (where was my camera?), the Shark Reef at Mandalay Bay, and the park, on a very cold, windy day (without much in the way of pictures there either. . . hmmm . . . perhaps I'm too busy chasing Gabby to take pictures at the park!)

Sushi, Yum!
Chillin' with Baby Signing Time

Park Fun

2009-04-12T20:24:00.000-07:00

Gabby loves the park -- especially the slides. She's perhaps too brave . . . I think fearless is the word. She scares me sometimes, but then, I see how much she loves life and how much fun she has and I'm glad.

Gabby climbing at the park

2009-04-05T20:14:00.000-07:00

She's getting to be a big girl. Just look at her climbing up onto the chair.

What does an owl say?

2009-02-09T20:21:00.000-08:00

Animal Sounds is Gabby's favorite book (and has been for awhile). If she had her way, we'd read it 50 times a day. As it is, we read it about 10 times a day (at least 2-3 times at each sitting). A week or so ago she decided that the last page was her favorite -- the owl. Then, just tonight, as I took the video, she imitated the cow as well! (That's what she's doing when the video first begins.) We sure love our little munchkin!

Look who's walking!

2009-01-29T22:19:00.000-08:00

Okay, so she's been walking for over two weeks now and I'm a slacker on first, taking a video, and second, posting it (no surprise). Gabby started walking between furniture (chair to couch, etc.) a couple of days before her birthday so about the 12th or 13th of January -- but at first it was only when she didn't think anyone was looking. A week later she was trying to walk much of the time and by now, she spends most of her time on her feet (and various other body parts after her multitude of falls) and very little time crawling. It's fun to watch. Her latest is carrying things around with her -- it started with a basket that she fills up with things and then tries to carry everywhere. But I bought her a little purse yesterday in an effort to keep her moving a little better (the basket was too big and difficult to maneuver) and she won't put it down. That's the next video I'll try to capture! Enjoy.

(And yes, those are socks. She loves socks, clean or dirty. Those particular pairs happen to be leftovers from a primary music activity that hadn't been put away yet. Hours of entertainment!)

Let them eat cake . . .

2009-01-19T09:36:00.000-08:00

Here is the promised birthday video. I finally got it to upload (actually I left it trying and forgot about it. Maybe it just needed a lot of time!).

Gabby is One Year Old!

2009-01-18T00:13:00.000-08:00

I can hardly believe that it's been a year since our sweet Gabriela was born. It seems like yesterday, but then, she's so big now and she's acting like a one year old more and more every day.

We had several friends come over for cake and ice cream and Gabby had fun tearing the paper off her gifts. She wanted to stop and play with each one as it was opened. Thanks everyone -- Gabby's Birthday brought lots of fun new toys which she is loving (she needed bigger kid ones).
And of course, the cake! Gabby is always quite effective in stuffing large amounts of food (or other objects, such as golf balls) into her mouth. The cake was no exception. I think she ate the entire piece minus a few crumbs (and she bounced off the walls until 10 pm to prove it!). Yum yum!

A Birthday Cake . . .

2009-01-18T00:07:00.001-08:00

We had a birthday at our house! This is the first cake I have really decorated so I had to document it.

My mom gave me a cake decorating kit with all of the tips, etc., for Christmas -- just in time. My friend Tiffany helped me with the decorating -- and other than not so much fun making the icing, we had a great time and I was very happy with the results.

Thanksgiving in Las Vegas -- again :)

2009-01-12T20:53:00.001-08:00

We had Thanksgiving in Las Vegas again this year. We've been married 5 years and 4 of our 5 Thanksgivings have been here in our home. Luckily, we've always had family come to keep us company. This year, my parents came again (thank you!). They came last year as well. We had a great time. Of course, my mom spent much of our time shopping (our favorite thing to do together in Las Vegas). And we even began the Christmas season early by dipping some chocolates (though they weren't nearly as pretty as when Grandma Clark helped us the year before).

Messes and More messes!

2009-01-12T20:47:00.000-08:00

Just another mess Gabby loves. She's gotten even better at making messes the last few weeks -- I guess I've been so busy cleaning them up that I've forgotten to take pictures (they aren't a novelty any more?)

Families Supporting Adoption

2009-01-12T17:51:00.000-08:00

November was National Adoption Month. On the 15th, our local chapter of Families Supporting Adoption (FSA), LDS Family Services organization for adoptive families, held a pancake breakfast and book drive. Dave and I have been serving as the secretaries of the FSA board and it was fun to get together with all of our new friends and their kids. And the biggest reason for this post . . . the picture of Dave and Gabby that I took at the breakfast is just too cute to miss!

Brushing Teeth

2009-01-12T17:45:00.000-08:00

Gabby loves having her teeth brushed (okay, the charm is wearing off now -- but when these pictures were taken -- and for about 2 months -- she loved it)!

Gabby has 7 teeth -- 4 on the top and 3 on the bottom, and Aunt Natalie, who is a hygienist says her teeth should be brushed once a day. We try -- only time will tell how good of a job we are doing. (I certainly can't see what's happening as I stick the toothbrush in and attempt to hit the teeth once in awhile!)

Lots of catching up to do!

2009-01-12T17:35:00.000-08:00

Okay, so I haven't really posted anything since before Thanksgiving (except for the Belly Laughs video). It's time to catch up. This is my little disclaimer -- I'll be going back and trying to fill in all of the gaps. Feel free to read -- or skip it -- it's all in an attempt to someday soon make a blurb book and call it Gabby's baby book. So . . . no skipping events.

Belly Laughs!

2008-11-28T20:48:00.000-08:00

Our friend Blake was here playing the other day and he had Gabby laughing harder than we've ever heard her. She seems to only laugh hard the first time she sees something she finds funny. She's too much fun!

Gabby's first project at Home Depot . . .

2008-11-03T21:48:00.000-08:00

Zack and Jack love to build the kids' projects at Home Depot every month. This month, they invited Gabby to make leaf presses with them. Now all we need to do is find some colored leaves to dry in our press (not an easy task in Vegas and we forgot in Cedar!).

A little hike . . .

2008-11-03T21:37:00.000-08:00

On Saturday, Sam & Mandy took us to see some Petroglyphs outside of Cedar. They were very cool and we had a nice little walk -- despite forgetting a baby carrier for Gabby (we used the stroller which worked better than carrying 23 pounds of squirmy girl, but was definitely not the easiest option!).

Cuddles with Aunt Boo

2008-11-03T21:34:00.001-08:00

Gabby sure loves her Aunt Boo and cousins Zack and Jack!

Halloween in Cedar City

2008-11-03T21:22:00.000-08:00

Friday, Dave took the day off and we headed to Cedar City to spend the weekend with his brother Sam, his family, and their sister Bonnie. We had a great time at the trunk or treat. Gabby loves her cousins!

Zack and Bonnie have a special connection. Check out their costumes! Zack called Bonnie and said he was going to be Peter Pan and asked if she'd be Tinker Bell. It was too cute! (I doubt she'd have said yes for anyone else!)

I know, you've already seen us --
but I thought it was worth including one where Gabby actually smiled!

Halloween Recital

2008-10-28T22:29:00.000-07:00

My fall piano recital for my students seems to get earlier every year. We started with December, moved to late November, and this year it became a Halloween recital.

This was such a fun theme. The kids wore their costumes (and so did we), and played Halloween or "scary sounding" songs. I think we might just have to have a repeat next year!

Trunk or Treat

2008-10-28T22:23:00.000-07:00

Saturday was our ward's Trunk or Treat. I talked Dave into dressing up -- though he wasn't that hard to convince (until the time came to actually put the costumes on!). Since Dave's dad is Palestinian, Dave and I both already had Palestinian clothing we bought in the Middle East a few years ago. Dave ordered a few extras to complete his costume this year and all that was left was to dress Gabby!

So, how do you dress a baby as a Palestinian? I have no idea! So . . . she became Princess Jasmine, and we became Jasmine's parents. It was a fun evening!

Caught red handed!

2008-10-28T22:07:00.000-07:00

Gabby is definitely in exploration mode! Everything is fair game . . . nothing is safe! The favorites still seem to be shoelaces and chords, with garbage coming in for a close third! She keeps Mommy on her toes.

A visit to the Park

2008-10-28T21:46:00.000-07:00

These pictures were actually taken over General Conference weekend, but haven't made it to the blog yet. It's so fun to see the world through Gabby's eyes at 9 months old. Everything is new and exciting!

9 months old!

2008-10-15T08:48:00.000-07:00

Gabby's favorite part about the outfit??? The ticket of course!

Look how pretty I am in bright orange!

Gabby is 9 months old today! I can hardly believe that she has been with us that long -- but then, look how big she is :). A little update on the clavicle -- she's doing great. She's still a little careful of it but is back to crawling around and getting into everything (without the wrap).

Here are just a few pictures of her at 9 months in her cute Halloween outfit that Tamara (her birthmother) sent her. Thanks Tamara -- we love you!

Thompsons

2008-10-12T21:04:00.000-07:00

Heidi's former mission president and his wife came to visit on their way to California. They rode down on their Honda motorcycle. He was recently assigned to serve in Ghana as the Church's legal counsel there. He and his wife will be there for a three year assignment. They have a home in Australia but come often to the United States for vacation. We always love to have them visit.

Gabby found a new toy.

2008-10-12T20:58:00.000-07:00

Never too early to start!

Gabby's wheezy sound

2008-10-12T19:43:00.000-07:00

Gabby likes to make a wheezy sound sometimes to let us know she needs attention.

Our Boo Boo has a boo boo but is still giggling.

2008-10-12T19:19:00.001-07:00

Humpty Dumpty (Gabby) had a great fall. Humpty Dumpty rolled off her changing table when momma turned for 1 second. All the king's horses and all the king's men have determined by radiography that Humpty has a broken clavicle (collar bone) and will be off the wall for 2 to 3 weeks.

ElHalta Look-alike Meter

2008-10-01T10:29:00.001-07:00

Okay, so we saw this on Nate and Jessica's blog and thought it would be funny to try :). So, Gabby looks equally like each of us (or doesn't look like either of us!). Too funny.

MyHeritage: Family trees - Genealogy - Celebrities - Collage - Morph

Halloween . . . sneak peek

2008-09-28T22:58:00.000-07:00

Yep, I really stand that well on my own.

Notice the two little teeth on the bottom;
I think this is the only picture we've managed to get of them!

For my students' piano recital this fall, we've moved it up a little and are having a "Halloween Recital." All 19 students are playing pieces that are either specifically Halloween themed or are written in a minor key and sound kind of "scary." Okay, I had to stretch it for some pieces a little more than others, but I think it will be really fun. Everyone who wants to is allowed to dress in their Halloween costumes as well, so I decided that Dave, Gabby and I should participate. I'm not much into costumes, but Dave and I have Palestinian garb from when we travelled to Jordan in 2004. So, in an attempt to make Gabby fit the theme, she is going to be our little Princess Jasmine.

Stairs

2008-09-28T22:46:00.000-07:00

Yep, it's true. Just over eight months and she's decided that stairs are the newest and coolest thing. In fact, right before Daddy took this video, he caught her on the 2nd stair. When he told her to stop (like she knows what he's saying. . . . I know), she turned around, giggled, and then turned to rush further up the stairs. What a monkey. Gates will be installed at the top and bottom of the stairs when they arrive via UPS on Tuesday!

Cheese!

2008-09-28T22:25:00.000-07:00

Okay, so this is kind of a silly video -- but I just wanted the grandparents and cousins to be able to see how big Gabby is getting. She wants to feed herself more and more. I don't even know if I'm supposed to give her cheese yet (being dairy and all), but she sure loves it!

Our Little Garden

2008-09-28T22:11:00.000-07:00

We planted a little "winter" garden in our two planters boxes in the backyard. It's a new thing for us! I did some research to find out what vegetables to plant and when. The guy who writes an article on gardening for the Las Vegas Review Journal (can't remember his name), said we could plant the middle of September. From the list of veggies he recommended (and others agreed), we selected and planted: 2 types of lettuce, spinach, carrots, green onions, broccoli, cauliflower, cilantro, basil, and parsley. We already have little plants coming up, which I'm perhaps unreasonably excited about, and I just hope I can keep them happy and healthy all the way to the point of eating! Doesn't a home grown lettuce salad for Thanksgiving sound fabulous?!

Gabby helping move the dirt (notice the planter box in the background)

Escape from the makeshift playpen (deck chairs blocking access to the pool). We thought she'd be intimidated by the grass and stay on the blanket. Must remember, we haven't found anything that intimidates her yet!

Daddy and Gabby cooling off in the pool after a morning of hard work! (The tongue is a new fixture at our house, we can't seem to get pictures without it. It has temporarily replaced the smile :).

Visiting the Larsen's over Labor Day

2008-09-28T22:04:00.000-07:00

We had a chance to visit with Mark, Melanie, our favorite Larsen kids (Payton, Jono and Madison), and meet their new arrival, Cael, over Labor Day. It was so nice to just sit and visit like old times. We miss having you a few doors down here in Las Vegas!

Melanie and Cael (David in the background)

Left to right: Madison, Mark, Cael, Melanie, Payton, Heidi, Gabby, Dave and Jono

Mischief!

2008-09-28T21:53:00.001-07:00

Labor Day Weekend at Grandma & Grandpa's -- Lots of messes

Benji and Gabby -- looking for trouble

Eating when I'm sleepy -- I must rub my eyes after each bite.

Playing with my two new teeth (bottom middle)

Eating blocks (and anything else I can find!)

More mischief!

Standing in her crib and a new tooth all in the same bright day!

2008-09-04T14:02:00.000-07:00

Today when I went to get Gabby from her morning nap, she was standing in her crib, holding on to the railing. She was a little wobbly, but she was up. I guess it's time to clean off the top of the coffee table too. The baby-proofing continues!

Then, this afternoon, I decided to check for teeth because it's been awhile. And what did I find . . . an explanation for the drama queen she was on Tuesday! Tuesday poor Gabby was just miserable. I assumed that she was missing all of the attention from Grandparents and cousins as we'd just driven home the day before from a week in Utah. (She's done this every other time we leave the commotion of visiting). She wouldn't even let me make my bed without crying hysterically. And now it all makes sense :). Her bottom right front tooth has already broken the gum and poked through and I never noticed it was coming. What a good baby we have . . . she didn't even have a rough night of sleep!

2008-08-24T22:10:00.000-07:00

2008-08-24T22:08:00.001-07:00

It was hot even at in the temple atrium, but everyone was kind and stayed for photos after the sealing. This is David's family at the Las Vegas Temple.

It's Official! Gabby is an El Halta!

2008-08-21T21:05:00.000-07:00

Cara (our social worker), Judge Potter, Gabby, David, Heidi & Deann (Heidi's Mom).
Today we went to family court and we have a lot to be grateful for. Gabby is officially our daughter. All that is left to do is be sealed in the temple on Saturday and we are all looking forward to that event.

Mission Accomplished!

2008-08-21T13:06:00.000-07:00

Gabby's sealing and blessing dress is finished! Thanks to my mom who flew in early yesterday to help me. It was a joint effort (I let Mom do the hard parts -- :) ).

The dress was primarily made of scraps left from my wedding dress (that my mom made). I think that's kind of cool.

Leap Frog . . . Life just got a little busier!

2008-08-18T21:46:00.000-07:00

I think we may be in trouble! Our very busy little Gabby just became more mobile. She gets a little better at it every day and before we know it . . . . well, let's just say that baby proofing the house should probably be on my list of things to do very soon!

Bouncy Bounce!

2008-08-13T23:06:00.000-07:00

Gabby loves her Rainforest Jumparoo. This is one of the first videos I tried to post and I thought I'd share now that we've figured it out. She gets even crazier in it now!