Home on the Range

Hugs and Kisses

2012-02-14T09:54:00.003-07:00

I mustache you a question. . .

Will you be my Valentine?

I knew you could not resist me.

I shaved just for you.

Happy 4th Abby!

2012-01-25T12:59:00.006-07:00

The Princesses

AND THE FROG.

Mirror Mirror on the wall,

Who's the

most stubborn,

cutest,

funniest,

most dramatic!!

of them all?

(And that's saying something.)

Holiday Highlights/Times I Remembered and/or Had Time to Use My Camera.

2012-01-17T14:28:00.010-07:00

Minute to Win it at the Hall Party. . .In the words of Great Aunt Joyce:

We're one Hall of a Family.

Cookie Face Race. Get the cookie from forehead to mouth using only your face.

Seriously. Funny.

Christmas Morning, Lucy sat at her piano and tickled the ivories.
Mr. Giraffe gave her a standing ovation.
Eliza happily shared her pillow pet. . .Here it is in pillow form.
Now it's a pet! Magic. . .pure marketing magic.
Cars 2: Age 5
Reminds me of . . . Cars 1: Age 2

(notice a marketing magic theme?)
Princess (Marketing) Magic.

Kevin's old.
Lucy's not.
Speaking of youth, here are cousins of various ages joined in the bonding experience that is technology. Side by side, never talking, not needing to acknowledge one another's presence-- just staring at a lit up screen while shooting and or hitting things, creating memories that will kindle the decembers of their lives. . . I'm just kidding. Do you know many 15 year olds that will lovingly entertain a feisty almost 4 year old? Cousins 2012.
Abby blossomed at her winter dance recital.

All Dressed Up!

2011-11-04T11:00:00.006-06:00

Cinderella, Mary Poppins, and Mario, Oh My!

Get a load of these glass slippers!

Practically Perfect. . .

I've been looking for some good help,

Nanny-tastic! Just in time. . .

this little one's been driving me buggy!

We managed one shot with all four.

Grandparents, this bugs for you.

Hugs and Kisses.

The Happiest Place on Earth

2011-11-02T12:33:00.019-06:00

*sustained happiness not guaranteed

"How was your vacation?" I asked. I will never forget her reply. For wiser words were never spoken. Vacation? she smiled with a pause and then continued. "There are no vacations with children. There are TRIPS. Our family TRIP was fun, it was fine, nice change of scenery." She left it at that. That wise woman was Aunt Joy, and I now think her words should be engraved somewhere, or at the very least embroidered in some festive design on a pillow.

We were off to the beach for fall break,

or so we told the children.

They're eyes glistened in anticipation,

oh wait. . .that's pink eye.

Dang it. Stupid Pink Eye.

No problem we'll call for a prescription on our way out of town.

Nothing can thwart our Family Vaca--Trip!

In-n-Out, the Beach at sunset, oh wait too late for sunset,

(You try to arrive somewhere in a timely manner with a 4 month old. and a recently potty trained 3 year old.) Not the point!

Hello California!

The next morning we give the kids clues to open to figure out where we are going.

(We have it recorded but the lighting was too dark and Kevin recorded it with his iphone with the light on and it looks like the Blair Witch Project kids win a trip to Disneyland. Again not the point.)

Eliza reads the final clue "We're going to Disneyland."

Long silent pause.

Jon says "How many more days?"

I shout "Today! today! We're going to disneyland right now!"

Finally appropriate shouting.

Lucy was so happy she didn't care that she woke up with pink eye!

No worries we have enough antibiotic drops to go around!

We're on our way.

Abby almost falls to her death on an escalator,

I smile and wave, "We're country kids,

not a lot of escalators down on the farm!"

Here we go!

Happy.

Magical.

(due to the fact this is an open air ride-- darkness+lit characters+enclosed spaces=not so magical for Abby)

A fake boy.

A real boy.

Happy. Happy. Magical.

Super Awsome -Jon gets picked for Jedi Training.

Where there are storm troopers. . .

Darth Vader soon follows.

Jonathan bravely defends the galaxy.

This is his "I defeated Darth Vader and all I got was a lousy certificate" face.

We stumbled upon Jack Skeleton.

Ask Kevin how long they stood in line to meet the mouseman himself, or don't ask.

yeah, probably don't ask.

Day 2- still feeling the magic?

Yes!

(only picture documenting Mom was there.)

Happy.

Magical.

Suddenly-Magic gone- Abby is done.

Magic gone-- Jon is done.

(Tantrums not pictured.)

Wait. . .Parade characters are coaxing the return of magic. . .

Jon waves while laying supine. . .magic too powerful.

Eliza's favorite character.

(Eliza alone never wavered in her adoration and awe of the magic kingdom)

Even Lucy towards the end said "Lets blow this taco stand."

And after running from one end of the park to the other to find the souveneir I wanted and not finding it, I agreed.

But at least Jon had the courtesy of waiting till we sat down to dinner to barf all over me.

Family TRIP indeed,

Can't wait for the next one.

Neither can the kids they said upon leaving. . .

"Hey when do we get to go to the Beach?-You said we were going to the beach."

Sing a Song of Catch Up

2011-10-10T20:50:00.007-06:00

Sung to the tune of The Sound of Music "Favorite Things"

Girls in white dresses with super cute faces,

Babies and Brothers

And hikes in fun places.

Swimming pool parties,

and Carousel rides,

Why does our brother just look like he died?

Verse 2: Grandma and Grandpa,

and our cool cousin Jonah,

big sheep,

and please weep for Jon with 3 sisters,

Parades

and cowboys

And mud up to there--

Doesn't this girl look so cute in her chair?

We love DO-NUTS!

And PIN-A-TAS!

And Aunt Karen too.

Baptisms-

and Cars 2

and sparklers galore---

Such fun we can't take anymore!

Hows that for catch up?

(some of our favorite things not pictured but we send our love.)

We Love Lucy

2011-08-01T12:04:00.009-06:00

Some try to be subtle:

"We'd love to see some pictures of

that baby. . ." (smile, wink)

Some are less so:

"You need to update your blog."

Back off people--there's a reason sleep deprivation is a prisoner of war tactic.

However to prove I'm listening,

Here is the new addition.

(She likes to keep one eye open

around this one.)

How are the others doing you ask?

just fine.

MOTHER'S DAY TRIBUTE 2011

2011-05-08T07:11:00.002-06:00

Dearest Melissa,

Once again, we have infiltrated your blog to post another video to remind you how much we love you and like to embarrass you. Thank you for all you do that makes our house a home: the delicious food you cook, the cleanliness you produce, the laughs you supply, the thoughtfulness you demonstrate, the listening ear your give, and the love and kindess you provide.

Happy Mother's Day!

Love, Kevin Eliza Jonathan Abby

2011-03-01T20:00:00.006-07:00

Oooooaaaahhhhh. . .

Someone's turning 5. . .
There's our guy.
Back away from the cake!--I've been sworn to protect all sugary confections until appropriate burstings of song and glowing flames signal go.
Space Rangers in training must be tested in all areas:

Intelligence.

Aptitude for Rescue Missions.

Taking down the Enemy.

Working well in a High Stress Environment

Having successfully completed space ranger training you can expect generous compensation,
As well as a hearty meal.
Mission Complete: Pretty much the best. birthday. ever. until next year of course.

Sunshine, Lollipops, and RAINBOWS!

2011-02-01T09:40:00.004-07:00

Martha Stewart tissue balls can only mean one thing:

Time to party.

A colorful party for a colorful personality.

Why yes, it is January, but who wants to cover their new super cute shirt from Grandma with a jacket? (note: refer to colorful personality above.)

Our gorgeous rainbow necklace model smiles for the camera. (of course she was the only one who didn't immediately eat her rainbow necklace.)

Happy Birthday Abby.

You color our lives with laughter, drama, and love.

(did I mention drama?)

We love you.

Have you heard this version?

2010-11-06T12:31:00.003-06:00

Little Bo Peep holding tight to her sheep,

Buzz Lightyear is running behind them.

Be it trick or a treat,

Don't they all look so sweet?

Say yes, or Buzz Lightyear will laser your face.

The End.

California Adventures

2010-11-04T23:41:00.007-06:00

On the beach in Monterey. . .

Abby. . .my blonde twin. . . our best squinty beach smile.

A cool conveyer belt slide at a park in Monterey-we couldn't get the kids off of it.
It's coming. . .it's coming. . .
The Monterey Bay Aquarium!
Eliza the brave touching the bat ray.

Greeting us at the Legion of Honor:
Us trying to make Rodin proud.

My card would say: Happy Birthday you stinky stinky nasty trash sea lions.

The kids aboard the Balclutha circa 1886.

Toured this vintage tug boat. . . my sea legs were shaky even on these docked boats, my pioneer ancestors would be so disappointed.
Sorry but I had to get a picture. . .you won't be seeing this in Cedar City. These are the same people that would be taking pictures of the sheep being herded on the road here. Even Steven.
Look what we discovered at the EXPLORATORIUM!
1) Dry ice makes everything look cooler.
2) Science can be messy.
3) Granddad is one hip street kid.
4) Eliza looks up to her super hip Granddad.
5) Three chairs are just right.
6) Jonathan's face is cute even while being blown at 70 mph.
Gotta love the Golden Gate AND Uncle Steve.
We ended our adventures at Yosemite. I love that the pictures look like cheesy K-Mart backdrop/green screen photos, but this is not staged kids, it's really that gorgeous.

We packed a whole lot of fun into one little week.

Thanks Grandmom and Granddad.

A long time ago. . .

2010-11-04T23:05:00.003-06:00

In a Galaxy far far away. . .

This kid turned 5.

(sidenote: Ben totally aced this cake with nothing more than a ziploc bag.)

Does this look like a face that could dismember you?
This kid I don't trust for a second.
Scary guy, can't remember his name. . .
It's okay, James took him out.
Abby unsure of what to do with the asteroid, who though, really, is not confused when encountering an asteroid?
We totally took down this guy. Thanks for letting us use the force Ben and Kerri!

SEVEN!

2010-08-23T08:57:00.008-06:00

She started planning her party in January.

It was going to be big.

8 girls at least. (Mom said no more than 8.)

Themes changed every other week.

("What about this for my party Mom. . .or THIS?")

Finally the day arrived. . .

Summer was crazy hectic.

Half the potential party guests were out of town.

Mom said: "What if we just have a family party?"

The tears started to well up. . .

Mom added "We'll go to the movies and buy your new bike."

She blinked the tears away,

Mom added, "And we can go to a restaurant."

"Okay", she said slowly.

It's true, my powers of persuasion are great.

Easy goingness is definately inherited from her dad.

This picture is to prove I mastered the Martha Stewart tissue balls, they put up a good fight, but victory is mine!
Good ol' family fun.
Eliza's sweet new ride from her loving Grandma, Grandpa, Grandmom, and Granddad!

FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL!

Mom attempted curls, and found out Eliza's hair doesn't curl. Hair experimentation should really happen before the first day of school.
Jon wishing it was his first day.
Grandma bought Eliza a "princess dress" she simply adores. She wants to wear it to church every Sunday and is always primping in the mirror when she thinks no one is watching. Here are my attempts at five minutes before church starts photography:

All of Jon's pictures sported this look:

I'm Back Baby!

2010-08-05T14:41:00.022-06:00

Apologies on it being so long since my last post. . .I've been busy these last few months.

Isn't he cute?
Eliza just loves him.

Fine. I just wish he were mine.---for a day--so I could love on him. . .and then give him back. and sleep.

Welcome Frederick Benjamin (Fritz). Good job Ben and Kerri.

For this next portion of our blog post we will be playing "GUESS WHERE WE ARE!" (you'll want to shout that part so it sounds more game showy.)
If you guessed Bryce Canyon. . .you win 500 points. (If you are a member of the Price Family you only recieve 250 because you probably recognized your son in the picture.)

Can anyone tell our studio audience where these shots were taken?

Snow Canyon! That's right, I'm not sure why they call it Snow Canyon (there was definately no snow in that sizzling heat) but award yourselves another 500!
ooohhhh, bonus name-appropriate graffiti.

Claudia Pose! (Yes we're still in Snow Canyon.)
Next for 1000 points. . .involving a famous work of art. . .where are we?
Downtown St. George. . .You're Absolutely RIGHT!
pretty. darn. cool.
If you guessed blasting through hyperspace-you are wrong. But if you guessed in the car on our way to. . .
McDonalds? What the?
No not McDonalds. . .wait for it. . . THE GRAND CANYON! Then my friends you are absolutely right. For 200 extra bonus points is this the north or south rim?

South! You are so smart!

Things just got classy, why yes, we are at a baptism. We all met up in Phoenix for Andrew's special day.
(Yes I am the only one with a sun strip running through my face because photos do in fact hate me. Just ask my wedding.)
"Do you know that lots of houses in Phoenix have pools in the back?" This is a direct quote from Eliza. After thus stating she begins begging us to move to Phoenix, because she was pretty sure Dad could get a job there. When we said no, she then pouted and spouted that she would one day, when she was a Mom, live in Phoenix, have a cat, a dog, a wii, and a pool and live happily ever after. Thanks Jeff Wright family for giving our little girl a dream.

For those of you who kept track of points, you should have known better. In closing a few wise words of my children to their father.

Eliza:

"Thanks Dad for taking us on this fun trip."

Jonathan:

(just as sincerely) "Thanks Dad for taking us HOME."

Hope you've all had some happy summer travels.

Join us next year for "Guess Where We Are!"

Two Families-One Hike

2010-05-11T14:09:00.013-06:00

Welcome to Zions National Park, today we wish to highlight the popular and family friendly destination:

Emerald Pools!

*Please hold your applause until the end of the tour.

And we're off. . .
And what have we here. . .begging your pardon, it seems we have run into a celebratory parade of some sort. . .but have no fear we will reach our destination. In the meantime, enjoy the candy.
um. . .and the bellydancers. . .
and the friendly stilt-walker. . .
and the elderly ladies sitting at the end of a rainbow.
Wow folks, this might be the first unicorn we've seen here in the park, very exciting people, very exciting.
Ah yes, now we're on to the Emerald Pools. Sir if you could just look at the camera, sir please if you could just turn around. . .Sir. . .please Sir. . .oh never mind.
Now remember folks, if you're tired, take a rest.
be sure to enjoy all that nature has to offer,
wear proper clothing,
and above all, stay hydrated.
Now that's a good looking family.
Here we are under the falls of the middle pools.

Everyone look up here, that's it. . .(Security be sure to check up on that creepy guy lurking in the background.)
Another day, another adventure! (Looks like spring break to me.)

Please keep all hands and cute smiles inside the vehicle at all times.
Are you ready?
And we're off!
The beauties of nature.

These two strong and determined young men did not seem to want their picture taken, we'll settle for this lone action shot, quite the hikers these two.
Ahhhhh, that's what it's all about people.
Thanks for coming out today folks it's been great. One final note to consider: if you happen to leave the park under the advice of certain members of one's family and go swimming which in turn results in an unexpected trip to the local ER involving stitches we are not, I repeat, not liable for the unsightly bills that will inevitably ensue. . .but we may owe you dinner. sometime. soon.

Thanks again!

Camping Out (of our minds)

2010-05-11T10:07:00.012-06:00

Kevin said it was time.

I said if we're going to do this. . .

we're dragging Ben and Kerri along.

I'ts not that I'm against camping, it's just that I'm against camping with toddlers in cold weather and sleeping in tents with toddlers in cold weather. Wait a minute now that I think about it maybe I'm just against toddlers and cold weather-- it is snowing right now in MAY and I did just clean up a bucketload of bath salts Abby silently sprinkled on my bedroom carpet. --Wow these new reflections are a lot to take in; I'm going to have to give this some more thought. In the meantime enjoy the view:

anti-social Hammond glare.
The more jovial folks participate in a treasure hunt.

Jon finally comes out to play.
Jonathan is quickly reunited with HIS blue chair.

The air turns colder. . .
spirits start to fade. . .
the only remedy lies in a heavy coat and a tasty smore.
Be brave young ones, we shall conquer.
Gather yourselves and your courage round this fire,
Your futures look bright. . .
and tasty.

Is this starting to sound like Medieval/Lord of the Rings camping dialogue? (you are welcome Ben.)

The next morning brought some sweet surprises from the Easter Bunny, which left us shivering!

Our grand hike begins, come on cousins!

Jonathan labeled these man-made rock structures "Cake". . .
he proceeded to run to each one. . .
and eat it. (with all that hiking he wasn't the only one imagining the mirage that is cake.)

For all the complaining from yours truly, the views were incredible, the laughs plentiful, and no one barfed in the car--and they lived happily ever after. Thanks Hammond family.

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!

2010-05-09T01:29:00.003-06:00

Dearest Melissa,

I have once again infiltrated your blog. Happy Mother's Day to the best mom in the world! Enjoy the video of your children. We love you and your chocolate chip cookies.

A Very Merry UNbirthday!

2010-03-15T13:35:00.007-06:00

Did you know you have 364 UNbirthdays?
It's true!

Cause to celebrate indeed!
Check out this refined lady:
Blowing out the candles

Abby prefers the "attack cupcake" method.

Pinata moved into closed messy garage due to inclement weather.

Off with his head!

Happy UNbirthday Wright Cousins!

We love you!

Shout Out!

2010-02-26T09:05:00.005-07:00

Here's a quick shout out to some GRAND ladies. Today was one of Eliza's favorite school days. . . Pajama Day!

Robe brought to you by Grandma Hammond, jammies brought to you by Grandmom.
You are here in spirit today grandmothers. We love you. (Abby and Jon get in on the P.J. action.)
Here are some bonus pics of a short trip to Snow Canyon, next time we'll plan a whole day. It's a fun place to go with kids- lots of short climbs and fun trails!

Bunny Cakes!

2010-02-16T20:37:00.010-07:00

BEFORE:

AFTER:

Partying this hard can only be explained by. . .
THE TAYLORS BEING IN TOWN!
The Birthday Boy!
A "Max and Ruby" party based on the best Max and Ruby book ever. . .
"Bunny Cakes". . .add it to your must read list.
In the book Ruby makes an "angel surprise cake with rasberry fluff icing" for Grandma.
And Max makes an "earthworm cake topped with caterpillar icing" (and red hot marshmallow squirters)
Isn't it perty?
We had the kind of fun that bunny money just can't buy. (see pictures below)

An intense game of Max's Frog Toss.
Time for the cake. . . I mean cakes!

Presents. . .Thanks Grandma and Grandpa!
More presents. . .Thanks Grandmom and Granddad!
And finally. . . one sweet ride.
Mom said I couldn't have another "Cars"

party. . .she didn't say anything about a wicked fast "Cars" bike.

Happy Birthday Jonathan. We love you.

(Thanks for coming Taylor family. . . not many would travel such a great distance for bunny money and free cake. We love you tuzins.)

A Real Swingin' Party!

2010-01-25T11:37:00.012-07:00

I'm ready. . .let's go bananas!

Cake. . .check.
Balloons. . .check.
Party Hats. . .check.
Food. . .check.
Birthday Girl. . .check. Let's hit it monkeys.

I decided not to crop out the Diet Dr.

Pepper. . . just keepin' it real.
Jonathan's monkey hat wins for best hair.
Hope you don't mind a close up Mr. Hairy Monkey . . . congratulations on your win.
Cupcake monkeys.
Cheater pants Abby playing "Get the Monkeys in the Barrel".
Jonathan a.k.a. Hairy Monkey can't get enough of this monkey fun.
Hot Banana, of course.
If you're stuck with the banana when the music stops, you have to embrace your inner monkey.
Presents. . .From Grandma and Grandpa Hammond a very cute pull toy puppy,
owl pajamas,
From Grandmom and Granddad Wright, some darling clothes, (Look they're pants and a scarf!)
And a super fun microphone!
Cake time. . .fire IS mesmerizing.

Thanks for coming down on monkey business Grandma and Grandpa, We love you!
Look, later that night the 2 year old decided to FINALLY put her monkey hat on. . .but she would only wear it BACKWARDS. Sounds like a 2 year old to me. (Note cute owl jammies!)

Happy Birthday you little stubborn monkey.

We love you.

Christmas in Cali!

2010-01-11T15:08:00.010-07:00

Like most good and glorious things, it all started with cheese . . .
Sisters. . .sisters, never were there such devoted sisters.
(or cousins).
Christmas Eve and the socks are ON!
The socks are now OFF and filled with sweet Christmas loot!
Sweet loot included a stomp rocket,
and a T-ball set from Aunt Karen. (jealous of the weather anyone?)
We love Aunt Karen!
Enjoying the park.

Grandmom got the girls super cute matching P.J.'s
Grandmom also made a cake for Kevin's birthday. Melissa ate the cake that Grandmom made for Kevin's birthday. Happy Birthday Kevin!
We enjoyed a trip to Fentons,

jumping on our aunt and uncle,
and a super fun day exploring at the . . . EXPLORATORIUM!
Ahhh, my eyes!
The eyebrows are interchangeable.
Disco is back.
The two headed boy.
Honey, I shrunk the exploratorium.

Where are her parents?
Hair dryers available 2020.
Magnets are fun.
Out from the misty moor she crept. (Don't worry my witty commentary is way better than the scientific explanations that might have accomapanied these scientastic shots.)
Palace of Fine Arts:

Thanks for hostessing with the mostesting Gradmom and Granddad. We had a blast!

It's that time of year. . .

2009-12-09T13:45:00.006-07:00

They're coming! They're coming!
Eat your heart out Mr. Macy.
Rare bird sightings:

Star Wars salute:

(feel free to add your own caption.)
High-five highlights:

Ho Ho Holy Cow. . .this is a hilariously fabulous parade.

Tardy Turkey Tales.

2009-12-06T17:08:00.005-07:00

That fuzzy guy in the back is Grandpa.

Turkey's ready!
Pre-game table.
Post-game table.

Cousins all day.
Cousins all night.
The great outdoors.
Hit it Grandpa!
Not rain, nor snow, nor sleet, nor girly gloves can keep these two off the tramp.
It was all smiles this Thanksgiving. Thanks Grandma and Grandpa!

So Cute. . .It's SPOOKY!

2009-10-31T20:40:00.010-06:00

The gang after carving pumpkins:
Fancy Nancy, Nemo, and a grumpy chicken.
Fancy Nancy looks stupendous. . . that's a fancy word for great.
Jonathan, or should we say Nemo. Note to our readers: He decided to be Nemo just three days ago, seconds after mom had finished his spiderman-pirate costume. . .fickle three year olds.

Abby in tears after being forced into her chicken suit-- but seriously who would want to be forced into a chicken suit?

Abby, after realizing the silly chicken suit earns her free candy.
Abby, after realizing the silly chicken suit earns her a BUCKETFUL of candy!
HA HA HA! Suckers!. . .Happy Halloween!

(No seriously guys Suckers! Lots and lots of suckers just for putting on this ridiculous chicken costume, I'm telling you. . .this holiday is insane.)

In 1492. . .

2009-10-16T14:03:00.003-06:00

This is one of the reasons I have children. A crowded lunchroom still reaking of corn, burritos, and bleach. . .add in all those wide eyed first graders donning crisp construction paper hats. . . nursery rhyme sing songs teaching us our basic columbus facts. . .1492, nina, pinta, santa maria. . .

Good old columbus day. I, for one, am still a fan.

Crabby Abby Says. . .

2009-09-25T22:46:00.002-06:00

So long summer. . .

Bring it on FALL!

All Smiles!

2009-09-10T17:32:00.002-06:00

Just for the record. . . Eliza is a wimp. I say this in the most loving way possible. It's not all her fault, she might be sportin' a genetic component. . .her father is also a wimp. I've heard whining about this loose tooth for over a month now. She would not let me pull it out. Her father would not let me pull it out. So tonight, I went full on Russell, ordered her over (loudly) and accompanied by screaming and protests yanked that sucker out! (I could hear my dad's hearty laughter in the back of my head the whole time.)

Seconds later she was skipping and singing and laughing.

"Do you want to hear my favorite thing about tooths?. . .The tooth fairy!"

Having A Wright Good Time!

2009-08-27T18:40:00.004-06:00

Our BRIGHTest smiles at Kolob Canyons.

Abby's "Cheese and Squat".

Iron County Mission Museum. . .the kids hop on the stage. We went home and appropriately watched "The Apple Dumpling Gang".

Bryce Canyon. . . Abby and Mom stayed home to take their naps.

It was so much fun. . .We love you Grandmom, Granddad, and Aunt Karen.

Back to School!

2009-08-21T15:23:00.003-06:00

Eliza is off to first grade. I included ALL of the first day of school photos because I happen to find it humorous that all I said to the girl was: "look at the camera", and by the looks of it you'd think she was auditioning for a JC Penny back to school ad.

Bonus pics of our first trip to the ER! 6 stitches later the nurse informed us we were the fourth little boy stitch up of the evening and eerily all the little boys gashes were in the same place-right in the middle of the forehead. . .spooky.
And two days later the kid tripped again and smacked his head in the same spot-(notice goose egg and swollen eyes in this picture.) Jonathan really does need to start walking without a car in each hand so we're not sacrificing heads for toy cars.

The BIG 6!

2009-08-12T20:59:00.007-06:00

This year was the BIG 6 for Eliza, we celebrated the occasion with a teeny tiny party!

Abigail checking over the final details. . .
Games,
Crafting,
And of course eating. Cupcake pops anyone?

And is a party really a party without a demanding, "Cars" obsessed, 3 yr. old?
This party is teeny-tiny-tastic!
Presents, of course.

Happy 6th Birthday to my Party Girl!

Color Country Kids Inc.

2009-08-03T14:47:00.008-06:00

You visit the Wright family and we'll take ya by the hand and show ya the best spots to get a little red dirt on your backsides. Guaranteed.

Barf in the car on the way there, and we'll throw in a neon yellow "Duck Creek Utah" shirt.

Educational and fun.

Trip also includes complimentary family photos:

Come on down, you won't be sorry. . .would this face lie?
Max and Julie and family, we love you!

Thanks for coming!

*Satisfaction not guaranteed, No refunds, returns, exchanges, red dirt may stain clothing and/or skin. Free lunch to first 50 visitors, weather permitting.

HAMMOND HO-DOWN '09

2009-08-03T13:18:00.004-06:00

Let it be known, we Hammond's know how to have a good time.

First things first. . .we eat.

We draw (enthusiastically).
We sit.
We eat.
We move.

We toss.
We have close encounters with a cardiac arrest.

We eat.
Don't be jealous, when you're genetically programmed to live it up and party. . . it's really not a choice.

OLD LADY!

2009-06-25T17:09:00.004-06:00

Thanks to all of you for the birthday calls, cards, cake (Amy), geriatric walking device (Katie), and sweet surprises. You sure know how to make this old gal feel special.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOM!

2009-06-24T04:41:00.008-06:00

Dearest Melissa,

On your birthday, your family wanted you to know what life is like with and without you. This first picture is, of course, what happens to your children when you leave the house and leave your husband in charge (a picture of what your husband looks like when your gone wouldn't have made it passed the censors):

This is a picture of what the children are like when mommy is around (it wasn't a perfect picture because mom wasn't around when it was taken):Your children also wanted to capture their musical abilities by singing Happy Birthday to you. There are several takes. This first take demonstrates Abby's fixation with putting stuff in her mouth:

This next take finally documents Abby's Old McDonald abilities:

And finally, this take we hear Happy Birthday with instrumental accompaniment, and again, Abby's fixation with putting stuff in her mouth.

We Love You Mom! We couldn't live without you!

Kevin, Eliza, Jonathan, Abigail

Guess Who?

2009-06-21T20:28:00.007-06:00

Nope, they are not relatives, at least I don't think they are. Meet Ebenezer Bryce and his wife. Mr. and Mrs. Bryce settled the magnificent area of land shown below, (after displacing some Paiutes, I don't know the whole story.) Behold BRYCE CANYON!!
Not bad eh? We had a delightful day hiking,
and oohing and ahhing,
and hugging
and oohing and aahing,
This place is a certified must see.
Oh and bonus drama: On the way home Eliza spotted a dragon fly type bug trapped in the car and alerted us all by screaming uncontrollably.
which then caused Jonathan to scream uncontrollably,
Which then caused Abby to stand strong as the voice of reason:
It was a great day. Thanks to our fabulous Daddy for dragging (yes there was a bit of dragging involved) us out into the great outdoors. We love you. Happy Father's day.

Oliver "Cheeks" Hammond

2009-06-13T16:28:00.006-06:00

Does anyone currently viewing photograph below not want to kiss this stinkin' kids cheeks off? A few weeks ago we got to see these cheeks live. . .they did not disappoint. Meet Oliver Hanks Hammond.

Jonathan sipping and contemplating the good old days when adults wanted to kiss his cheeks off. . .pop is better.
Enough with the discussion of cheeks!
Sweet cheeks inherited by cute mama below:
See ya on the 4th Ollie!

How Does Our Garden Grow?

2009-06-08T08:58:00.009-06:00

With help from Grandma of course!

Grandma and Granpa visiting=slave labor

We put Grandpa to work reconstructing trimwork and ordered Grandma to the backyard.

Strawberries,
tomatoes, and watermelons oh my. . .
Lazy onlookers. . . (I guess Kevin was working on leveling the other side of our yard, but more importantly who was luggin' around the oh so/somewhat hefty camera taking pictures, huh? HUH??)
The gloves are ON!
Planting plenty o' peas.
Watermelon break. Hey melon girl, quick question, who is your stylist?

Here's hoping a bountiful harvest will soon be in full swing. Thanks Grandma and Grandpa for all of your help.

The girl who just wants to have FUN!

2009-06-01T21:58:00.008-06:00

While the rest of us have been taking it easy, Eliza has been a busy little bee. Here are some highlights:

Soccer with Dad/Coach. Note no game pictures were taken due to the artic spring winds here in Cedar City. Freezing winds + Mom trying to control Jonathan and Abby while Daddy coaches= no soccer action shots.
We did snap the end of season treats. . .Way to go Lions!
Next we have the kindergarten end of year program, Eliza oozed confidence with her shared line: "In Kindergaten we learned about money".
Proud of her performance.
Some of our neighbor buddies.
And a silly one. . .first grade here we come!
The Dance Diva at her spring recital.
Check out this pose, very modern. . .be the tree Eliza. . .be the tree.
In real time: the female chipmunks have never sounded so classy.

Grandmom!

2009-05-10T23:02:00.007-06:00

It being Mother's Day and all, I thought I would finally post the few pics we got with Grandmom. She spent her spring break with us and we loved every minute of it. She was a good lady to give up California weather to come enjoy freezing temperatures and snow with us. We had one nice weather day and we spent it down at Zions. Thanks for coming Grandmom, We love You.

Court of the Patriarchs.

An Eggciting Easter

2009-04-28T21:38:00.018-06:00

Here's a few pics from our Easter weekend. True, Easter was a while ago, but since I'm still stuffing my face with clearance Reese's Peanut Butter Eggs, I figured a belated blog entry was just fine.

The gang ready for the hunt.
Abby just needed one.
The oh so darling "Easter Squat"
Jon happy with his results. Note to self: cut his hair.
The hills are alive AND her basket is full.
The loot.
Maddie turned 2.
A coy smile.
Not sure what happened here. . . Indiana Jones play gone terribly wrong?
Eggs to DYE for.

The easter bunny was good to us.

Abby demonstrating her genetic need for cholcoate inherited from yours truly:

Oh yeah. . . that's the stuff.
Speaking of chocolate, here we are enjoying Aunt Mer's famous chocolate cake. If you ate it, you would be this happy too.
Had to throw in this picture due to the frightening. . . I mean fascinating similarities.
All in all, an eggcellent weekend.

Our DINO-mite Day!

2009-04-19T17:22:00.013-06:00

Our expedition begins. . .the explorers think the possiblilities for discovery look promising.

The anticipation is palpable.
Quick, I think he's spotted us.
Bunny disguise. . .nice try.
Watch out Eliza!
Abby wrangling a brontosaurus
Jonathan demonstrating his most ferocious Dino "roar".
Intense exploration continues at the erosion table,
the explorers concentrate hard on their research,
Eliza proudly points at her data analysis.
Where did this ginormous shark come from-(cue the theme to Jaws.)
Back to work, unearthing massive specimens.
Digging crew #2
Paleontologist extraordinaire. . .
With our Dino work done, we decided to put on our boots and mozy on over to farm country.

Here chickie, chickie. . .
See if you can guess which is real:

Kids trying to feed the chicks and goats through the impenetrable mesh barricade. (Maybe they had one too many kids leave with pecking injuries.?)

Didn't your mother tell you not to run with suckers? You could lose an eye.
Pony Rides!

I only remember we didn't weigh as much as a cow. (*Note: mom was not on the scale.)
I decided to throw in a bonus "Eliza and Jon holding an enormous snake skin at the Bean Museum" picture. They do look excited, don't they.

Spring! . . .April Fools.

2009-04-05T19:23:00.003-06:00

Dad dressed these kids. Dad took these pictures. Dad pulled these kids in a sled around the house. What about Mom you ask? Where is Mom? Was she shopping, cooking, cleaning? Funny you should ask. Mom was in her bed, in denial, the covers pulled over her head fighting seasonal affective disorder. I mean it Utah. . .I don't know how much more of this I can take. (I think Abby agrees with me.)

Neglected Child

2009-03-18T10:06:00.005-06:00

After finishing the last post, I realized Abby wasn't in a single shot. Rather than endure countless hours of therapy later in life, I decided to let her star in her own post. (plus she let me do her hair today) So without further adeiu, here is Abby participating in her favorite pastime climbing in and out of the rocking chair! . . .Enjoy!

Spring has Sprung

2009-03-18T09:12:00.006-06:00

And with the change in seasons we encounter:

A more domestic side to Jonathan

A visit to Kolob Canyons. . .
with our friend Felix. We then sent him back to Taft's Chicago classroom from whence he came with a plethera of information to share with those city kids about the splendor of the great state of Utah.

Spring also includes Phoenix cousins visiting us on their Spring Break!

A very handsome cowboy.
The best two of the 24 pictures taken. . . Abby was napping.

Our first formal introduction to this little smart lookin' dude. He's crawling and climbing and into all sorts of action. . . Abby drank her milk and watched. . . show off.
Bestest Cousins Club president and vice president.
It was too short, but lots of fun. Thanks for stopping by, we love you guys!

School Days

2009-03-07T11:26:00.006-07:00

Don't ask me how this separation anxiety ridden child who has basically screamed bloody murder every time mom and dad stepped out of the room for the last three years is now bravely climbing on this enormously giant and huge yellow school bus in order to get to and from preschool twice a week. Maybe his new Lightning McQueen shoes and Thomas the Train backpack have given him special powers.

Meanwhile Eliza was so excited for Pajama Day at her school she didn't sleep a wink the night before. "Pajamas to school. . . that's crazy!" (Recognize these cute jammies cousin Anna?)

CAR-AZY!

2009-02-21T21:38:00.013-07:00

Exactly one year ago Jonathan turned 2, we celebrated with a "CARS" Party.

A year later Jonathan turned 3, we celebrated with a. . . "CARS" party. (yes, those are newly purchased Mater party hats, but I did kick myself for throwing the old ones away, what kind of psycho kid wants the same birthday party two years in a row.) See "psycho kid" below:
We had a treasure hunt,
a Mr. The King cake,
and a lot of fun.
What a year it has been, here is an ode to my "CARS" loving son. Happy Birthday Jonathan!

Cars in the morning.

Cars at night.
Cars life size. (sadly Jon is not the owner of this vehicle.)
Cars-what a sight!
Cars to wear. . .
EVERY DAY!
The kid loves "CARS" what else can we say?

It's hard to say "I Love You".

2009-02-09T21:48:00.007-07:00

Seemed like a good idea at the time. . .what better way to convey a tender valentine sentiment than to have the kids hold up an I, a heart, and a U. So sweet, so simple, so. . . .

Forget it. Happy Valentine's Day. We love you.

A Happy Abby Birthday

2009-02-09T20:57:00.006-07:00

"C is for Cookie" happens to be Abby's favorite song to rock out to in the Car.Plus I thought it was appropriate since C is for Cake, Cousins, and Cuteness.

Lizard decor added by James and Eliza, quite stylish I thought.

Gotta love a party! Happy 1st birthday Abby!

Indiana James and the Cousin Crusades

2009-01-22T09:30:00.015-07:00

We enjoyed the company of our adventuresome cousins James and Milton last weekend. Some of the highlights included an exciting treasure hunt in St. George. Here is the infamous Indiana James.

A clue!
This clue might be tough to get. . .
but not too tough for Indiana James.
Eliza waves her clue victoriously.
After much searching and reading of clues. . .

the TREASURE!
And aye mateys what sweet treasure thar be!

( I decided to throw in some pirate)
Short Round.
This treasure is awesome!
The triumphant return.
Here is Abby, she's been keeping her eye on the Temple of Doom, oh wait, that's the temple of St. George. (Hope that's not sacrilegious, just trying to stick with the Indiana Jones theme.)
Some awesome shots of Indiana James:

The adventures continue at the Dinosaur Tracks at Johnson Farms.

T-Rex Track

Even die hard adventurers need a little rest.

Abby likes to sleep with one eye open. . . you never know.
A well deserved soak. Thanks James and Milton we had a blast, we love you.

Ida Ho Ho Ho!

2009-01-04T21:01:00.010-07:00

Hammond's Humble Nativity: the wandering sheep.
Mary and a very large baby Jesus.
Somber Joseph.
A searching shepherd.
Sweet Mary.
Abby received the gift of crawling this holiday season, here Uncle Wayne taunts, I mean encourages her with a bag of M&Ms.

Too smart for you Taylor!
Christmas Morning!
Abby could get use to this Christmas thing.
COUSINS!

All in all this Christmas was a bowl full of jelly.
Bonus end of trip visit to Aunt Meredith and Uncle Jim.

What's a Cavalcade?

2008-12-14T22:39:00.006-07:00

Cedar City knows how to spread some serious holiday cheer. . .check out the annual Children's Storybook Cavalcade. Run Run as fast as you can. . .

You can't catch. . .FLASH! (Eliza gets the shaft from the Flash!)
There was an old lady. . .
whose shoe has been infiltrated by storm troopers.
Not sure about this one, might be Mother Goose's second cousin. . .
or Big Bird's long lost brother. All in all highly entertaining.

Happy Turkey Days

2008-12-09T22:42:00.016-07:00

We spent a delightful week gobblin' up the fun in California,

with Grandmom and Granddad
and Uncle Steve.
California highlights included: IN-N-OUT Burger. . .
A day at the California Academy of Sciences Aquarium. . . does it get any cooler than an albino alligator?

The Beach, of course.

The Oakland Zoo. . .fun for all ages.

In addition to these activities we ate yummy turkey, ate yummy pies, ate yummy cheesecake, ate yummy chinese food, ate, ate, and ate some more.

Uncle Steve took these pictures of Abby, and they are so. . .Abby.

Fun in the backyard at Grandmom's, we could easily get use to California winters.
Thanks Grandmom and Grandad (and Uncle Steve) for the wild ride, we love you and miss you already.

Family Pictures!

2008-11-16T10:29:00.008-07:00

Here are some pictures from our family photo shoot this last weekend. The kids were in good spirits for most of the session. . . that behavior might have been conditioned by the "we'll go out for pizza if you're good" bribe. I think we only had to threaten "no pizza" four or five times. Not bad at all.

Day Out with Dad

2008-11-09T22:09:00.007-07:00

This weekend my dear friends Keri and Karen visited us from Twin Falls. While us girls hit the town shopping in St. George, Dad bravely entertained three kids at Zion's National Park. (his idea) That's right folks. He singlehandedly managed three kids for 8 hours in an outdoor unstructured setting. He dressed them (obviously from the pictures!), he fed them, and he managed crisis (Jonathan gagged on a fruitsnack and threw up on himself.) Let's hear it for the man of the hour. . . DAD! Thanks dad, and thanks to my friends for giving me a much needed girls day out.

I LOVE DAD!

A Storybook Halloween

2008-11-01T22:07:00.016-06:00

Once upon a time there was a little girl named Red Riding Hood, a mischievous wolf, and a temperamental woodcutter who did not particularly like wearing hats.

Treats were involved...
...as well as a mother and a rather handsome grandmother.
More treats.
This hat isn't so bad.
Is it time for more treats?
Hat AND ax. . .I'm getting the hang of this.
No Pictures! TREATS!
Treats and a movie. . . and they lived happily ever after.

Hey Good Lookin'

2008-10-27T17:52:00.002-06:00

Jonathan got his hair cut today. He did not cry, scream, or kick. Definitely blog-worthy.

Country Livin'

2008-10-26T19:34:00.001-06:00

Yesterday we attended the Cedar City Livestock and Heritage Festival. The parade was lots of fun and I thought the picture of this sheep wagon was especially blog appropriate.

This is where the sheep guys sleep while herding. . . looks cozy!
At the parade they threw out sheep wool--way better than candy!!
Here comes the main event. . . .
THE SHEEP!!!
Also there was a mountain man dude, covered wagons, and LOTS of tractors, bet you wish you lived in festival city USA!!