Captivated

Happy Brithday 'Lil E

2011-11-02T09:22:00.000-07:00

I still have so much to catch up on over the last four months, but want to wish my beautiful Eden JoAnna a very happy and amazing 4th birthday today!

Little one, we can't imagine life with out your contagious laughter, your beautiful smile, and your precious heart! You are cherished and loved today and always! We love you baby girl! Thanks for being ours!

Tru Mark Howard Teasley

2011-09-26T17:53:00.000-07:00

July 27th at 1:43pm we welcomed our precious baby boy, Tru Mark Howard into the Teasley family, weighing in at 8 pounds and 19 inches long. We are so in love!

* Birth story and updates coming soon

gas

2011-06-09T10:02:00.000-07:00

I've had cranky girls on my hands these past few days from lack of sleep and all of the end of the year happenings.

Yesterday, Eden was in rare form...crying and upset about pretty much everything. I think I could have given her a bowl of ice cream and she would have been mad about it.

After dropping off Ezri to school in the morning, we ran a few errands and I had to stop and get gas. On our way to the gas station, Eden started bawling in the back of the car "I don't want to get gas Momma, I don't want to get gas!"

As I pulled into the station, I turned around and asked Lil 'E why she didn't want to get gas and she told me with alligator tears dripping down her round, rosy cheeks "I don't want to get gas, Momma 'cause getting gas gives me bad gas."

Totally struck my funny bone!

highlights from the past 7 months

2011-06-06T14:50:00.000-07:00

Not sure where to begin after a 7 month lack in posting...so here are the highlights!

We found out in the fall we are expecting baby Teasley #3

Ezri turned 6 in December and had her tonsils out at the end of the month...was grueling but now she sleeps like a champ, has sprouted up, and I think has hallow bones because we can't keep up with her appetite

Found out in February that baby Teasley #3 is a little boy...we were a little doubtful, but he clearly wanted us to see that he is ALL boy. We are so excited, a whole new world in the Teasley house...watch out girls

In March we purchased the house Levi grew up in and began a long and intense remodel project...all thanks to Pop Pops and amazing friends for helping us

March also was the start to Levi's 1st season as head soccer coach at EHS. He had an amazing season...made it to the second round of state. First time EHS "man soccer" as we are now calling it has made it to state since 1986. And to brag about my hubby, he was nominated coach of the year...couldn't be prouder of him.

After soccer ended we had one week with Daddy home, just enough time to get us moved to our new house over Memorial Day, and now we are back into football mode with the start of spring ball

Still sitting in unpacked boxes due to a torn muscle in my tummy from being Mommy and working hard to get the house finished

Ezri will be ending her kindergarten year next week and Friday we are celebrating with a class Luau and program...lots of Hawaiian songs and hula dancing these days

This past weekend my beautiful friend Melissa took family and pregnancy photos for us...she did an AMAZING job...thanks dear friend

At 33 weeks prego, looking forward to school coming to a close and anticipating baby boy July 22

eden is 3

2010-11-14T21:12:00.000-08:00

every year as the girls birthday's approach, i wonder where has the year gone. why does time fly so fast when you want to freeze every moment (or a least most moments). i'm truly blown away that our sweet little joy, eden joAnna is now 3. the age her big sis was when we met her...

we made the most of eden's actual birthday after celebrating with friends on halloween. eden and i had a special momma-daughter date while ezri was at school. we had yummy smoothies and she picked out a special movie and outfit at the store. we picked sis up from school and met daddy for a quick snack. when daddy got home from practice, we went to dinner at the roadhouse. it was conveniently tuesday and tuesday's at the roadhouse are all about kids...kids eat free and hugh the balloon man comes! we had a great dinner and a complementary birthday ice cream sunday! when we came home, eden got to open her birthday gift from momma, daddy, and big sister...eden got her very own "american girl" doll (our generation doll from target) just like ezri. her name is lily anna and it was so fun watching the girls get so excited about playing with their dolls together! it was a wonderful day! the girls went to sleep with their dolls in jammies sleeping next to them! (sorry for the picture below, our camera is not happy these days)

at age 3, our eden joAnna is bubbly, funny, energetic and sweet. she's still in the 75% for her height and weight and starting to stretch out a little. she makes us laugh whenever she can, but has the gentlest little touch and a very sensitive spirit. she is her big sisters shadow and looks up to ezri in the most precious way...they truly are best friends! she loves coloring and creating, dancing, pretending of all kinds, playing with dolls and anything small...especially pet shops! she wants to be going to school so badly, and walks into sunday school and tuesday morning bible study childcare without hesitation because she's going to class like big sister! it's been so special having her to myself in the mornings while ezri is at school. i get to see a whole new side of her without sister around. she gets lost in imaginative play and is so creative, she's really excited about learning how to cut with scissors and put puzzles together. she is such a talker and quite the storyteller. the main character in all her stories is her "gwampa." she talks with the most adorable lisp, and has a cute little "helium" voice as my mom calls it! she's very tough and brave...she volunteered to get her flu shot before big sister and didn't even cry, but needs a band-aid for any kind of bump or ouch regardless of the location. she has the most precious prayers, and is always thankful for her sister and something silly and random like cheeseburgers.

our precious eden, we are so proud of you and the beautiful little girl that you are! you bless our family everyday and we love you beyond measure. you are a kind friend and a loving sister! your smile lights up a room and your laugh is contagious-one of the best sounds in the world! eden as you step into the next year ahead, we pray that the Lord would cover you in his protection. that he would guard you and keep you safe. we pray that you would continue to grow in your love for Jesus and always have a heart that is open to him. that you would continue to have wonderful friends around you to play with and grow with. Lord we ask that you would continue to bless eden's relationship with ezri and their bond as sisters would never be broken. Lord we thank you for eden's sweet and gentle spirit, continue to grow that in her so that she can share who you are with others. Father we pray that eden would desire to be obedient to you and continue to be filled with the contagious joy that you have given her. help us to be the parents you designed for eden to have, bless her and hold her tight in you arms Father! Jesus thank you for our precious baby girl! Amen!

eden's 3rd birthday party and halloween

2010-11-14T20:38:00.000-08:00

our sweet baby girl turned 3 on november 2nd. wow! so hard to believe!

we had a very special birthday celebration with our amazing small group on halloween! our small group (which should really be called a large group), with kiddo's decked out in adorable costumes, came for pizza, crafts, and of course cupcakes! eden wanted a tinkerbell themed party, so the kids made fairy wands, decorated candy bags for trick-or-treating, and went on a hunt for captain hooks hidden treasure. after all the birthday celebrating, all 14 kids and families headed down the road for mob-style trick-or-treating! we had so much fun celebrating our baby girl and we are so blessed by amazing friends!

the girls wore the dresses they picked out from our trip to disneyland in june (yet to be blogged about)...eden was one of the fairies from the new tinkerbell movies named rosetta and ezri was princess tiana. i must say they were absolutely adorable (but i'm a little bias).

first day

2010-09-10T11:05:00.000-07:00

this week was an exciting week in the teasley house. we started soccer and kindergarten.

wednesday was our first soccer practice. i volunteered to coach and managed to rope my dad into helping...major time warp for him. our 1st practice was hysterical...we were only on the field for about a half an hour and had kids saying they were tired and needing to sleep, they were doing kart wheels and somersaults, picking grasss, just about everything but paying attention...way too funny! it's going to be a fun season with these little ones. tomorrow is our 1st game...should be interesting.

thursday was our first day of kindergarten. ezri is thrilled to be at valley view and has the most amazing teacher in the world...miss selzler. eden and i were able to stay and hang out with sister for the first part of class. miss selzler read us all "the kissing hand" which is a perfect book for anxious momma's and kiddo's getting ready to leave each other for the first time. we kissed each others hands, leaving reminders that our love goes with each other even when we're apart. ezri had an amazing day, had p.e., ate frog slime with flies in it for snack (mint, chocolate chip ice cream), saw her buddy jack at recess, and was sent home with her very own book to practice reading. she was so ready to head back today! i'm so proud of the little girl she is and is becoming. what a joy it is to be her momma!

ezri just seems like such a big girl all of the sudden. i wish i could freeze time, it all happening too quickly.

our lil' e had a rough time leaving sister, so we had a hot cocoa date and enjoyed some great one-on-one time together. i'm looking forward to spending mornings with eden. i get to see a new side of her with out sissy around. thank goodness school is only a half of a day, eden and i were ready by lunch time to have big sis around againg!

all in all, we're excited for what fall is bringing!

thankful

2010-08-06T09:12:00.000-07:00

that is how i find myself today...thankful! thanful for the beauty of God's creation, thankful for the mini-blessings He lays in my lap everyday, thankful the amazing man He gave to me, thankful for the spirited little girls He gave to me to raise, thankful for my lack of perfection and shortcomings...they are pulling me toward Him...refining.

this past year was hairy, i've titled it my "learning year." i was far from the momma, wife, sister, and friend i desired to be, but found that Gods grace was abundant and His peace sufficient in the midst of my overcommitments. i'm thankful for new beginnings, because his grace is new every morning and it's a new morning.

thank you Lord for where you've placed me, for the joy in my heart, for allowing me to try again- you are the potter and i am the clay...mold me.

i yuv you with...

2010-06-15T10:17:00.000-07:00

After dinner Sunday, Eden leaned over to Levi and whispered "Daddy, I have a secret...I yuv you with carrots and ranch!" He must be pretty special!

bedtime prayers

2010-04-21T08:19:00.001-07:00

Last night, as the girls are getting in lost in the mass of pink and yellow covers in their beds, they are chatting away telling me what we need to pray for before sleep.

Our little Eden's standard prayer requests are for Dadda, Mommy, and Sissy as well as the animals at the zoo, usually a specific animal. Last nights selection was leopards and hippos. Our new favorite request is to pray for chicken nuggets...not sure all she means in that, but cute none the less (treasures I keep in my heart)!

Our Ezri on the other hand - true to her character - has big issues she needs to address with the Lord, often precious thoughts for Grandparents we don't see often, or a friend. Last night Ezri said "Mom, we should pray for the people that had the earthquake."

We haven't talked about Haiti in a while. I love that she has a desire to help hurting people and remembers what happened. Ezri went on to tell me "We need to pray for those kids Momma, maybe there's one who doesn't have a family, maybe we should go and get one. We could adopt one Momma. If we adopted one, would we bring their car seat with us?"

As she chatted on about the kids, I just teared up. I love the tender awareness God puts in the hearts of children. Ezri prayed a precious prayer for "the people shaked by the earthquake." My prayer is that her heart is always soft and open to God's prompting and that Levi and I can learn from her heart as well!

if you're not a monkey...

2010-03-05T18:13:00.000-08:00

...you can't eat banana's upside down.

While I was in the kitchen making dinner, Ezri was snacking on a banana at the table. I turned around and she was laying backwards in her chair with her head under the table. She looked at me and said "It's not easy to eat a banana upside down if you are not a monkey."

Another quote added to the list I don't want to forget!

"there are monsters in my nose"

2010-03-03T19:02:00.001-08:00

In the car today...

Eden: "There are monsters, monsters, there are monsters!" Covering her eyes and peeking through her fingers.

Momma: "Eden there are no monsters, you silly goose!"

Eden: "No Momma! There are monsters in my nose! They are trying to eat my boogers." Then grabbing her nose and yelling, "Monsters DON'T EAT MY BOOGERS!" Then looking at me with a smile starts laughing!

trying to keep up...

2010-03-03T18:41:00.000-08:00

It seems these days with teaching part-time (which often feels like more), being a momma and a wife, I'm not so good at keeping up with much else! But I'm hoping to do better. Be prepared for another round of blog-catch-up!

my love

2009-12-10T11:50:00.000-08:00

My best friend, my better half, my true love...my Levi. We've had a wonderful week of Daddy being home right after school, now that football is over. I didn't realize how much I missed having him home in the evenings, to play with girls, to tell about my day, to make dinner with me, and just be together - as a family! When he's here home feels like home, I have more peace. I am so blessed by him...he truly is super Daddy/husband. He jumps-in in all arenas...laundry, dinner, bath time, whatever is needed. I appreciate him more than he will ever know! But what I love the most is the way he loves me and the girls. He makes us feel cherished and treasured. I feel so thankful that the girls have his example of a fathers love; that they will compare the way Daddy love them to the way God loves them; that they will look for a husband that treasures them the way Daddy does. Thank you Lev for being our "home" and for the way you love us...you make life joyful! I love you!

Happy 5th Birthday Ezri!

2009-12-04T09:16:00.001-08:00

Today is Ezri's 5th birthday. Five, really? I can't believe that our baby girl is that old, when they say kid's grow up too fast, it's really no joke. She's flown through babyhood, jumped past toddling, and has blossomed into this sweet, joyful little girl!

Treasured beyond measure, I can't imagine our family without Ezri Shannon! All week I've been flashing back to the week we welcomed her home. A week over due and so ready to have my precious babe in my arms, but December 4th she came in Ezri form...dramatically after hours of labor and 4 hours of pushing. At 7:01 am, weighing in at 7lbs 7oz, our precious girl made her appearance. Eyes wide, without any yelling or crying, she laid on my tummy just looking at Levi and I. A girl...really...we just figured we'd have boys! All I could think of, looking in those deep, little blue eyes was God's perfection. He knew we needed this little angle.

Our ray of sunshine, at age 5 today, is a precious big sister. Always looking out for and thinking of Eden...she even let Sissy help open her gifts this morning. Such buddies they are. Ezri loves school and is quit the social bug. She's really into dancing and singing and I can't get over her creative little brain. She's always making up songs, to her own tunes, that rhyme and have a story line...a poet or song writer someday maybe? She loves snuggling and probably tells all three of us she loves us 20 times a day! She's my little helper and her favorite thing to do with Daddy is dance...most commonly in the evenings you'll find us Teasley's having a dance party. A girly-girl to the T, Ezri wants to be in dresses, wearing pink or purple, playing something princess related. She's super into cheerleaders, considering all the football games we attend and watch, and have I mentioned dramatic. This little one is full of emotion, when she's sad and upset there's no denying it, when she's happy it's contagious! But have I mentioned joyful? I'm so proud of this little one and so thankful the Lord has entrusted her into our care!

Happy Birthday Ezri Shannon! Momma and Daddy love you beyond measure and we will never fully be able to tell you how much that is! Thank you for lighting up our life, for helping us to see who God designed us to be through your touch in our life! You bring insurmountable joy into our house! We love the beautiful little girl God has designed you to be! Thank you for the way you love your little Eden, how you compromise to make her happy, how you help her, and play with her! Treasure her friendship forever, it's a gift from the Lord! Lord, we pray that over this next year you would bless Ezri. That Father you would cover her in your protection, that you would continue to draw her heart toward you! That as she starts Kindergarten next fall, she is confident in the little girl you've made her to be. We pray over her friendships Lord, that you would bless them and give Ezri genuine friends that can play well together and can encourage each other. Continue to bless Ezri and Eden, thank you for the way they love each other and help their relationship to keep growing! Lord, Ezri is such a gift from you, she blesses us each day! Help Levi and I to be the parents you made us to be for her. Give us grace and patience and help our actions to direct her towards you! Lord we love this little angle so much and help her to know that without a doubt! Amen!

We love you precious girl! Happy Day today!

october

2009-11-28T16:58:00.000-08:00

October's happenings in the Teasley house:

Ellensburg High School's homecoming this year was a Disney theme, and as many of you know anything Disney in my family is not to be missed. We attended the Friday night game, of course, to cheer "Daddy's team on." We only stayed through half time (that's about as long as the girls will last). The cheerleaders were throwing out Mickey Mouse dolls and the girls each got one, which made the night and the fireworks were super exciting!

Our first FCA of the year:

We are so excited about the route FCA is taking this year! We had at least 30 kids come for our first huddle, student leaders have stepped up and really become involved (which we've been praying for), and we had an amazing family donate money to the Huddle for shirts for the kids and any other needs! Wow, God is good! Pray that He continues to move through the school through this ministry!

Preschool cider press field trip:

For our fall field trip at the preschool this year we picked apples and made homemade apple cider. Our friends Pam and Dave opened up their house and let the kids pick apples, make cider with their cider press, and the best part of all...taste the cider!! Dr. Lundy came and sang songs with the kids at the end. All in all it was a really fun morning, and Eden loved getting to be with the big kids!

Suncadia Harvest Celebration:

We took the girls up to Suncadia to enjoy all the fall activities they offer during their Harvest Celebration! We had such a fun day, the girls were able to ride ponies, get their faces painted, wonder through a hay maze, go on a hay ride, and pick out pumpkins...and the best part...it was all free! It was a great family outing, I think we will look forward to each year!

Cheerleader Camp:

Every fall the EHS cheerleaders put on a cheer leading camp and of course our sweet little Ezri was tickled to be part of it! She had one afternoon of practice and then performed at half-time during the game that Friday! She was super into it even performed this year, last year she was a little too shy in front of all the fans :0) I love what a girly girl this little darling is! Can you see how excited she was?

Another great Harvest Celebration:

Our good friends the Holts have a harvest celebration each year, in order to celebrate God's goodness and share in it with friends. They have a great house with lots of critters, apple trees, and great places to play! They had an apple launcher, roasted a pig (the real deal, butchered the day before), an apple cider press, there was a pie baking contest, and a fire to warm up around! They even had hay for the kids to dive for prizes in! It was an afternoon spent with good friends and was great fun!

Pumpkin Carving:

Trick-or-treating:

My camera battery died, so this is the only photo I have of the girls at Trick-or-Treating. We made Mini Mouse costumes...Eden's pink and Ezri's purple of course! We decided Mini should have a tutu instead of a dress...so the girls and I had fun making tutu's together! Don't you love how poofy they are!

september

2009-11-18T18:07:00.000-08:00

Our highlights from the month of September:

The Kittitas County Fair and parade are always held Labor Day weekend in Ellensburg, and it has quickly become one of the most anticipated events of the summer by our little Ezri. This year the parade was held in a down pour and we ventured out into it in spite of the unfortunate weather. After the parade, we rode rides with the girls and Ezri's good buddie Maddie. We were soaked by the time we headed home, but enjoyed ourselves non the less!

Maddie and Ezri on the Carousel.
Eden riding with Daddy...she loved yelling "yee haw"!

Ezri getting a quick, free, lesson on the violin in Pioneer village....she's talked to us about playing the violin since she was three...maybe we have a musician on our hands?

So focused!

This was the highlight of the day!

Eden panning for gold.

Ezri and Maddie joining in too...

Auntie Anna, Uncle Matty and Gromet trying to stay dry at the parade.

Ezri was super excited... watching the bag pipers.

Trying to stay warm, what sweet little sisters!

I took on a new venture this year and am teaching preschool with my wonderful friend Melissa at her preschool, Jack and Jill's House. We take turns watching one each others little ones. It's been a great adventure for us, a great fit for our family, and the girls eased into the transition well. Ezri is in my class which has been special too.

Ezri waiting for her friends on our first day!

Ezri and I starting our new adventure :0)

For my birthday this year, Levi surprised me and planned a special afternoon get away for the two of us. He made reservations at the restaurant at Cave B. We had a yummy brunch, spent some time walking around exploring the Cave B property, and just enjoyed being together! My precious man is good at making me feel spoiled and adored! He sent me flowers on my actual birthday, planned a dinner with my family, and our date together! I love my Levi to pieces and couldn't imagine not sharing everyday with him! Thanks for a great birthday Babe!

august

2009-11-18T17:46:00.000-08:00

Snap shots of the month of August:

Laying in the backyard watching the stars...Eden didn't want to be in the picture!
Hard goodbyes to our special friends the Hoefers. All the kids playing at there "goodbye" get together.

Water skiing with Nana and Pop Pops at Vantage...a beautiful day!

Our escape to the Seahawks game...without the girls...a super fun date!

Pop Pops built the girls a swing set at their house this summer...it was a huge hit. Thanks Pops for how you love the girls! What a special gift, they came over to the house without knowing what he'd been working on so it was a big surprise!

Wee!

Levi after painting our house with the paint sprayer...isn't he so handsome, even covered in paint!

*I'll add a picture later of what how the house looks...I love it!

finishing up july

2009-11-18T11:28:00.000-08:00

Playing at the cabin pool!

Daddy swimming with the girls

Pop Pops wearing the puddle jumper

Nanz and Eden Playing "owls"

Ezri's first time climbing at Daddy's school!

up so high!

So proud!

camping in lake chelan...july

2009-11-11T16:59:00.000-08:00

At the end of July we went camping with our good friends the Hoefers. They have three adorable girls and one son, Alex waiting to come home from Haiti (check out their blog below...Life in Hoeferburg...it's a beautiful story). Our girls all play really well together and we love spending time with their family. We decided in the spring to plan a camping trip together for the summer, which was a big deal because camping is not Abby's favorite thing...but I was thoroughly impressed by her. They rolled into the Lake Chelan campground with a little one throwing up, and later had two sick, but managed to stick it out and make it through the two nights anyway. We swam, rode bikes, walked through downtown, and escaped the heat at Starbucks for a while...real "roughing it" camping :o) Scott, Abby and the girls moved to Idaho this summer and so it was really special to have that concentrated time with them. We miss them dearly, but are so excited for how great of a fit Boise is for them!

Eden and Avery playing in the sand by the tent

Ezri, Karis, and Hailey...floating in the lake

Karis, Hailey, and Ezri...could they be any sweeter?

Levi and the girls soaking their feet

Riding bikes with Daddy

hawaii

2009-11-11T13:44:00.000-08:00

I finally finished a post about our trip to Maui this summer. I had started writing about in October, so if you want to check it out look in October posts :0)

Eden JoAnna is 2!!!

2009-11-03T09:14:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was our sweet Eden JoAnna's 2nd birthday! We can't believe two years has passed since we welcomed her into our family, but at the same time can't imagine life without her! She has made our family feel so complete!

She woke up yesterday to lots of birthday hugs and kisses from Momma, Daddy, and Sister. We opened her presents and sang her happy birthday all before Daddy had to leave for school. Eden was so sweet, she just smiled and kept saying "thanks you" in her sweet little voice. All morning she kept hugging me and saying "happy birfday Momma" with absolutely no idea what today really was...so sweet! I had to teach in the afternoon, so Eden hung out with Miss Melissa and Daniel. Ezri and I picked her up after school and headed to Nana and Pop Pops' for more birthday wishes and then we met Daddy after football practice for a special birthday girl dinner! We all talked about what we remembered from the day she was born. Ezri remembers wearing her Bell dress to the hospital to meet new Sister. Mommy and Daddy talked about how shocked we were she was a girl, what an amazing sleeper she was the first night, how blond her hair was, and how much smoother labor was than the first time around. We had a dance party after dinner, put on our new birthday jammies and watched the new Tinkerbell movie! It was a great day!

At 2 Eden is so much fun! She's super chatty and talking in full sentences all the time with what we call "her little accent". If your not around her enough some of her words are hard to understand, but she'll tell you about it anyway. She loves to dance and sing us songs. She loves reading books and will veg in front of the TV for as long as you let her! Eden does whatever Big Sis is doing...even throws tantrums like Sissy and gives herself timeouts. She always carries around Piggles, her little piggy who must be wrapped in two special blankets. She's really tough and owies don't phase her a ton...she didn't even cry or make a sound when she got her flu shot. Eden needs lots of snuggles and mostly wants Mommy to hold her at nighttime. During the day I often find her tackling sister in the the living room to give her hugs and kisses. She loves to be silly and will do anything to get a laugh! But when she gets mad, she's mad and will scream...something we're working on! She's a ball of energy and her laugh is contagious!

Eden,

Daddy and Mommy and Sissy are so blessed to have you in our life! You are a treasure to us! Thank for the way you love us. For your special snuggles and the way you grab our faces and say "I miss you, I yuv you". Your constant silliness and giggles warms our hearts and fills each day with joy! We love how you are always following Sister what good friends you have in each other...always cherish that! Thank you for being our girl! We love you more than words can express...all the way to the moon and back and more!!

Lord, we ask that you would bless Eden in this next year! Thank you for the beautiful little girl she is and for the gift she is to us! Thank you for blessing us with her two years ago. Help us to honor her in our parenting and to raise her up in the way she should go! We pray that her heart would continue to be open to who You are and that You would make yourself real to her everyday! Keep her safe and protected, please bless her friendships and her relationship with Ezri! Thank you that Eden and Ezri have each other, help them to show one another grace and love! Thank you for what You are teaching us about You through her sweet little personality! Surround her in who You are and bless our Sweet Little Joy! Amen.

hawaii...still catching up from july...

2009-10-14T10:04:00.000-07:00

(I have spent at least 45 minutes trying to get the pictures to stay with the right stories, but no matter what I do when I publish it gets all jumbled...so I apologize...I can't seem to figure out how to get it right...frustrating!)

July 9th through the 18th we headed out on an awesome 9 days of sun and sand in Maui with my parents and grandparents. Levi's brother Nolan and fiance Morgan happened to be there at the same time for a wedding and we were thrilled to have time with them as well.

The girls did awesome on the plane. I packed goody bags for each of them filled with new toys, books, sticker books, and coloring pages. We had tones of snacks and the DVD player with a few new movies...needless to say they had plenty to keep them occupied the 5 hour flight!

We spent the first three days at Napilli Bay and the rest of the time in Kehei. We had a great time with the girls and our family. The week was fabulous...we spent most of our time snorkeling, boogie boarding, playing in the sand, and swimming at the pool.

My Highlights:

Watching Ezri overcome her fear of the ocean; the first day she wouldn't get near the waves, but by the end of our time she was splashing in the them.

Ezri and Eden discovering they can float and swim around on their own in the pool using their puddle jumpers! (Ezri tends to be on the nervous side and wouldn't let go of the wall or put her face in the water, after all our time in the water she was jumping in on her own, holding her breath and dunking under. Eden is pretty fearless and reminded me of a little otter, floating around with her little toes poking out of the water.)

Breakfast at the Gazeebo. The Gazeebo is a restaurant on Napilli Bay that only serves breakfast and lunch. They make incredible food. We had amazing pancakes with white chocolate and macadamia nuts. And we discovered how amazing papaya is if you put a little lemon juice on it. The Gazebo is so popular that people start lining up early and it can often be an hour wait. Dad wen down and got in line around 7:15 so we could eat at 8:ooam or so. So worth the wait...incredible scenery and delicious food!

Levi's birthday dinner at Bubba Gumps. We flew into Maui on Levi's 29th birthday and celebrated the next night at one of his favorite restaurants...Bubba Gumps. We told them that it was his birthday and they stopped the music in the restaurant had Levi shake his booty for his dessert, and then sang him happy birthday...we were belly laughing...nothing like watching your husband shake it in front of a room full of people :0)

Snorkeling in general is one of my favorite things and it was so fun to do with the whole fam. But my snorkeling highlight was going with Dad and Levi in a bay just around the corner from Napilli Bay. (Mom was gracious enough to watch the girls). This bay was more private, with homes and what not and a little harder to get in the water off of rocks, but so worth it. We were surrounded by Sea Turtles...there had to be a least 10 or more just resting on the bottom of the bay or swimming up to the surface. There were so many that at times there would be one behind you and you'd never even notice. We saw small ones and huge ones with barnacles growing on their faces. God's creation is magnificent and experiencing the underwater world He has made was priceless!

Three dates. Wow! Having my wonderful parents with us, they let Levi and I escape on some dates. We were able to spend one evening with Morgan and Nolan...we had a blast. We ate a Cheeseburger in Paradise at a table in the sand and listened to live music. When we were done with dinner we walked around Whalers Village. I love spending time with those two...we're so thankful to have them in our lives...we wish they lived closer :o). Levi and I also went snorkeling one morning together which was fun, Levi heard people saying they saw and octopus, so from that point on he was a man on a mission...oh how I love him! The two of us were also able to go out one evening for dinner and some shopping, with kiddos sometimes you forget how nice it is to just have time together.

The Luau! We decided our one big treat would be to take the girls to a Luau. We decided to go all out considering your not in Hawaii very often and when would we have the chance to take the girls to a Hawaiian Luau in Hawaii again...so we chose the the Hyatt's Drum's of the Pacific. We went ahead and bought the VIP seating because we wanted to be able to eat first and be in the front with the girls...it was worth every penny! The girls LOVED it. Eden especially, she even went up on stage and learned a dance...it was super cute! The show was amazing. One of the dances the men stick our their tongues and Eden just thought that was so funny and for the rest of the evening was doing the same. She stood on my lap and danced most of the show! We had a great family sitting with us from Tennessee and the girls immediately attached themselves to them, and Ezri sat with them for part of the show! It's just so fun to watch things through your kids eyes and this was one of those times.

Watching Papa boogie board. Our last day in Maui we decided we'd done enough snorkeling and just wanted to get some good boogie b oarding in...whic h we did and my Papa even joined us at age 75! I don't think I've ever seen Papa just play like that and it was so fun to b e out in the water with him and watch him figure out the science to catching a wave! He was in the water fo r at least 2 hours if not more! We all had turns out in the water with him and i t will forever be one of my favorite memori es of Papa!

Dad and the snorkels. This probably won't seem funny to anyone else, but I had been having troubles wit h my mask snorkeling and so Mom let me use hers. Dad was trying to figure out whose gear was whose and no matter how I explained that I had my snorkel and Mom's mask and Mom had my mask and her snorkel...it wasn't connecting...so anyway it gave me a serious case of the giggles! I was laughing so hard I was crying!

Happy Birthday to Fluffy Face. One of the nights Levi and I were out, my parents and grandparents stayed and made dinner at the condo and went swimming with the girls. For those you who know Ezri well, she loves the spotlight and to be in charge. She had managed to captivate my parents and Papa and Grandma and created a whole birthday party for her purple puppy she named Fluffy Face. She has found scraps of paper for tickets and had everyone deliver their ticket at the party, made a cake out of something, and had everyone sing happy birthday! I love the way my family loves my girls!

Going to the aquarium. My parents and grandparents went to a show one evening and so we decided to take the girls to the Aquarium. The girls really enjoyed it and it was so fun to show them all the amazing fish we had been enjoying snorkeling. They also have an exhibit that is an underwater tunnel where fish, sharks, and rays are swimming above and below you...so you feel like you're underwater.

Overall just being together! We are truly blessed by a wonderful family and I loved experiencing the beauty of Maui with them! What a priceless memory we created being in paradise with so many people you love!

my sweet ezri shannon

2009-10-13T18:48:00.000-07:00

my heart is so full and proud right now of my little girl! we've been struggling a bit with ezri and some of her dramatic attitude lately, but in between the tantrums there are always those precious moments where you see your little babe shine.

we had a little adventure to yakima today...on a hunt for tulle and sparkles to make tutu's...so fun! ezri was a great helper, but we left a huge mess at home. i told her we'd have to tackle it together when we got home. normally i would be facing a crying 4 year old who is too tired or misses daddy or has an ouchie...you name the excuse, but today she walked right in the door, headed to the playroom and began cleaning. she cleaned way more than i asked and then went on to make her bed, mommy and daddy's bed, and deliver the clean laundry piles.

once done with her chores she gathered up her little sis and some books. she hoisted eden into what we call the "cozy chair" (daddy's recliner) and the two of them are currently reading books together!

i never can believe how much love my heart holds for those two little e's of mine, but when you see glimpses of the girls God has designed them to be it just makes think i'm going to burst! thank you Lord for the beautiful and loving heart you have given ezri. bless her as she seeks to bless others. continue to cultivate and grow her into the young women you desire for her to be!

i love and treasure you ezzy bee!

4th of july

2009-10-06T09:10:00.000-07:00

So going in order catching up July through September...I'll start with the 4th of July!

This year was a bit unusual for us, we were just home without any big plans and it was really great! We started off the morning doing a 5k run (I believe they called the Firecracker run) at a park in town, as a family! Our friends, the Holt family, did it with us as well! I made Levi promise to stay with me the whole time and we pushed the girls in the stroller. I think it was a little bit of torture for Levi and his competitive nature to just run for fun! Needless to say, the last stretch of the run I told him to go ahead and finish at his pace...he regained a little of his dignity and passed the remaining few in front of us! I was just thrilled to have finished and enjoyed the family adventure!

After our run, we went to a pancake breakfast at the Fire Station...so yummy...and the girls got to sit inside a firetruck which was a highlight. We cruised the farmers market from there and then went home to enjoy the afternoon!

We made burgers for dinner, just the four of us, and then got cleaned up and headed to the park for the 4th festivities the city offers (after a quick ice cream stop). The girls wore their shirts and hair clips we made the day before with our small group friends...too cute. Ezri and Eden got their faces painted, Eden jumped in the bouncy toys (not Ezri's thing), they made silly hats, were given glow necklaces, and played with friends! We didn't stay for the fireworks show, but had a great view from our front yard. Eden fell asleep wrapped in a blanket in my lap watching and for the first time Ezri really enjoyed the show...without any nervousness! All in all it was a great day!

Yeah! We did it!

Katie, Tristen, and Emily Holt with Ezri (Curtis and Eden didn't want to be in the picture)

Look at my tummy!

Our sweet babes!

catching up

2009-10-02T22:05:00.000-07:00

Hello blog land...we're still alive and have had a fun and full summer. I've just been terrible about keeping updated! I'm hoping to catch up this weekend with all of July, August and September. Fall is in full swing- Levi is back to school and coaching (go Bulldogs, they're having a great season). I've started teaching preschool and the girls and I are beginning to adjust to our new schedule! I have felt so contented this fall and so full of thankfulness for all the Lord has provided! I'm looking forward to catching everyone up soon!

it's a whopper!

2009-07-03T23:32:00.000-07:00

Today we spent the morning doing 4th of July crafts with friends...the girls made super cute t-shirts to wear for tomorrow (great idea Laurie)! When we were done we headed over to meet our friends Mitch and Karmelle and their daughter Clare, who were in town visiting Karmelle's mom. Karmelle's parents live on a great lot outside of town with a fishing pond. Mitch and Levi set up the poles and got Ezri set to catch a fish...and what do you know...they really caught one! This was Ezri's first experience reeling in a fish and she seemed to really enjoy it! The thing was huge! Mitch was great about making Ezri feel like it was her catch (even thought he did all the work). Eden wasn't too interested and preferred playing with Clare and reading books with Ms. Terri. After cleaning the whopper and hanging out for awhile, we headed back to our house to BBQ that fish! Mitch prepared it for us and Ezri loved eating her catch! We really enjoy hanging out with the Richard's...Levi and Mitch played football at Central together and it's so fun now to watch our daughters playing together!

camping in sunlakes

2009-07-03T22:47:00.000-07:00

This past weekend we went camping in Sun Lakes with our small group, my folks, and one other set of parents. We have been so blessed by our small group and cherish the relationships Levi and I, as well as the girls are building. It was so much fun to spend the weekend together, and great to have my parents with us. We were quite the crowd...all 7 families...but it was really a blast.

Within moments of getting out of the car Eden was covered in dirt and ash from the fire pit she chose to sit in! The weather was beautiful...in spite of a mighty wind storm that tried to blow us away Saturday night. My parents brought the boat, which was fun but a little crazy on such a small lake...yikes! So we decided to enjoy the water from the beach instead.

Friday night I woke up to the sound of rustling and crunching, only to discover a raccoon had opened our food box and pulled out a bag of Kettle chips (he had to choose the expensive ones). After getting Levi up, he shooed the critter away and secured our food, only to discover he chose to hit everyone elses sites too. He enjoyed cheese-its, trail mix, and more...those raccoons must love camping season!

Eden after sitting in the fire pit

Peek-a-boo daddy!

beach bathing beauty

dig...dig...dig

Emily and Ezri in the inner tube

Audrey and Eden...sand buddies

I love the dirt!

Emily and Ezri had to go potty and couldn't make to the restroom, we told them to walk out in the water to cover their bums and go....when we looked over this is what we saw...oops! No hiding what they were doing :)

The boys are just drawn to Levi...Braiden and Tristen were have water wars with him...we now have surrogate sons!

"Take me home I'm cooked" Most the kiddo's before we headed home Sunday...you can they're wiped out!

Thanks for such a special weekend friends!

vbs painting

2009-07-03T22:38:00.000-07:00

Vacation Bible School at our church is such a fun and exciting ministry to our community! The church is transformed into new places for the kids to discover the truth of Jesus in...and I just love being a part of it. Having little ones not old enough to attend, I usually volunteer to help decorate. This year the theme was wildwood forrest and I decorated the worship center. My room was "misty meadow." Because the sanctuary is so big, I had to paint a mural 27 feet x 9 feet...needless to say it took me about 35 hours to paint. Here are a couple pics of the mural, before we were completely done decorating the stage.

preschool celebration

2009-07-03T22:27:00.000-07:00

Ezri had her end of the year preschool celebration a couple weeks ago. We had to postpone it because Mrs. G had her baby...a precious little boy, but rescheduled for June.

The party was a ocean/tropical theme. The kids sang and acted out what we call in our house "the fishy song," received their certificates, were able to show us the projects they worked on all year, had delicious snacks, and just got to play! We're so thankful for all that Ezri has learned at Jack and Jill's house this year, she's made special memories and life long friends!

singing "the fishy song"...can you spot her?

sisters playing in the sandbox with friends

the places and positions we sleep...

2009-07-03T22:14:00.000-07:00

I was realizing how many pictures I have of Eden sleeping...that little darling is always asleep in some odd place (most often at the table) or in some cute little position (usually bum up)! Oh, to sleep like that!

cousin Kiki's graduation

2009-07-03T21:53:00.000-07:00

Our beautiful niece Kiki graduated from high school this year...wow...so hard to believe! We are so proud of the beautiful young woman she has become and are so excited to see where the Lord takes her!

Of course we couldn't miss the special day, so made the trip to Lewsiton for the weekend. Graduation was Saturday and then her party was on Sunday! The girls love spending time with their cousin's and I don't think Ezri or Eden let Lewonne or Kiki out of their sight the whole time.

After graduation, the girls got to decorate cupcakes with Kiki...what fun!

Lewonne was so good at entertaining the girls during the graduation party, and totally amused Eden by pretending to sleep...Eden was doing it too...so cute!

Thanks for the special time "Idaho Teasley's"!

"up daddy" Eden's turn!

2009-07-03T21:49:00.001-07:00

friends

2009-07-03T21:24:00.000-07:00

Our girls are so blessed have so many amazing friends in their lives... Here's some cute pic's of the girls playing with buddies in May!

getting corn ready for dinner with Halle and Faith

planting flowers with Maddie

playing in the water with Karis and Avery

"up daddy!"

2009-06-08T22:15:00.000-07:00

running through the sprinkler

2009-06-08T08:27:00.000-07:00

last FCA

2009-06-08T08:13:00.000-07:00

Last week we had our final Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) huddle for the year. We Bar-B-Qued, played lawn games, had a fire and made smores, and celebrated our Seniors! The kids had a fun night and are great with the girls. A bunch of the boys ate in the girls little playhouse...Ezri thought it was great! FCA has been such a fun ministry for our family and it's neat to see how it's growing since we started a few years ago!

the ridge

2009-06-02T09:11:00.001-07:00

Levi and I were able to escape a few Sunday's ago and hike the ridge together! It was so nice to have the time together...I think we do our best talking when we're hiking or walking! The wildflowers were just starting to bloom...it was a perfect morning!

the garden and baby goats

2009-06-02T08:49:00.000-07:00

Levi planting the garden with the girls. It's become something Ezri looks forward to every year! This was Eden's first time helping.

We had a BBQ with friends on Mother's Day at the Holt's house; they have baby goats and lots of other fun critters! They let the kids chase the goats around for awhile and Ezri still hasn't stopped talking about it!

peek-a-boo

2009-06-02T08:42:00.000-07:00

where are the girls?

peek-a boo!

farm field trip

2009-06-02T08:18:00.000-07:00

May 22nd Ezri had her preschool farm field trip. Levi took the morning off from school to take her and they had a blast! They saw baby cows and pigs, went on a big scavenger hunt, sat on the farm equipment, and went on a hay ride...all in all it was a really special day with Daddy!

Buddies...Wyatt, Jesse, Ezri, and Maddie

sweet baby animals

The whole group with Mrs. G

Jesse, Ezri and friend on the big tractor

Ezri and Maddie on the hay ride

walking on water

2009-06-02T08:14:00.000-07:00

Ezri: "Momma, why could Jesus walk on water?"

Momma: "Because He is God and He can do anything...He made the water."

Ezri: With a big smile and a giggle "Momma, could He give me a piggyback ride?" (meaning while He's walking on water).

Oh, from the sweet mouths of babes!

little mermaids

2009-06-01T11:34:00.000-07:00

little sister

2009-05-03T21:03:00.000-07:00

Eden is 18 months old this weekend and I thought I'd share a little about our sweet babe at 18 months. I can't seem to figure out where the time has gone! She is our little bundle of joy and silly's. She's constantly trying to make us laugh, loves to dance, and tries to be just like big sister.

We can't get over what a precious addition she is to our family, she as truly completed it, it's hard to imagine life without her. Little E, as we call her, is in constant motion all the time and it's a rare occasion that we see her walking...she's usually running, or walking with a silly bounce in her step bobbing her head. She loves animals and is often telling us about a cow and then mooing or crawling around barking and playing puppy with Ezri.

She's talking so much and beginning to put more and more short sentences together. If she's not saying words we understand she's talking in her own little language anyway (Ezri always seems to know what she needs though)! Some of her words we've decoded....wawy (water), mees (come with me), I'nno (I don't know), flowy (flower), pees (please), ya you (love you)...are just a few. We've entered into the "mine" phase and just recently has been grabbing things saying mine or saying "my mommy" "my daddy", etc.

Eden loves to read and if we can't find her she's usually sitting by the bookshelf in the playroom with a heap of books in her lap. She's really interested in the potty and runs to the door yelling "potty" after she's gone in her diaper, we're figuring out the concept :) so maybe approaching potty training soon...cross your fingers. She's recently attached herself to a little pig we call Petal and little play ipod that plays only Wiggles songs. For some reason she can't have one with out the other, so we're trying really hard to make sure we keep both in sight most of the time.

We just put a big girl bed in her room with Sister and she's thrilled about it, tonight is night three and it's seems to have made things easier at night for our girls who tend to not do the best at night. Ezri and Eden have a true little bond that just fills our hearts, they play so well together and Levi and I love how common we hear the two of them laughing together in the playroom! I love this age of discovery and all that she is taking in.

Our sweet Eden, we love and cherish you! Thank you for being ours!

The video was one of our many dance nights and Eden started singing to one of the Dave songs...it had us cracking up and you can't ignore our Ezzy dancing in the background!

teasley tea time

2009-04-29T16:44:00.000-07:00

Ezri got a new little tea set for Christmas and we've been promising her we'd have a real tea with real tea and treats. So during spring break we had a family date night and made lemon bars together, then set up the girls play table. Daddy put on "tea appropriate" music, lit candles, and gave us each new names. I think we laughed most of the time, but made a great memory!

2009 Easter

2009-04-29T15:53:00.000-07:00

With spring approaching and new life budding all around, it's such a reminder of the new life we've been given in Christ through the sacrifice He made for us. I love celebrating Easter. This year Levi and I were able to host our families at our house! Ezri loved the idea of everyone coming to our house and got really into decorating. It was fun to build new traditions with our girls! Thursday before Easter girls and went for a walk down the trail to collect branches and pretty things to decorate our table. It was a beautiful day and we had a great time. Friday, Pop Pops (or Poppy as Eden says) came over for dinner and we decorated Easter eggs...boy was that interesting with Little E! Church was beautiful on Sunday and we had a great time with family, ate way too much food, and enjoyed watching the girls hunt for eggs!

catching up through pictures

2009-04-29T14:11:00.000-07:00

So....I've been terrible about blogging lately and decided today that I couldn't let it go any longer and have given myself the afternoon to catch up. Here are some pictures recapping February and March...

Girls into Mischief

Eden discovering the world of coloring on the walls...and all over herself

Ezri was a "sugar swumps" sales woman, apparently sugar swumps are little noodle shaped worms that people eat. What can I say that pose had me hooked.

Valentines Day

Princess valentines were a must; Ezri was getting ready for her class valentines party and wrote her name all by herself on each valentine:)

Eden and I were able to join Ezri for her party at school. Little Sis loved feeling like a big girl!

Nanz 50th Surprise PartyMy Mom turned 50 in February. My Dad, Brother, and I planned a surprise party for her...we were pleased to see she had no idea! It was truly a special day celebrating her and all she means to us!

Eden's 1st bike ride

Look at that smile, I think she's enjoying herself!

Friends

Our sweet little friends Karis and Avery come play often...the girls adore them and they always have a great time together...I think they were watching Tinkerbell...

Ezri and her buddy Sydney were busy at work painting the playhouse with wet troll dolls...how clever

One of my closest friends Brooke and her two little girls came for a visit from Spokane. Halle, Faith, and Ezri were busy digging up carrots left over in the garden from last year.

The Zoo

We've made it a tradition since Ezri has been old enough to visit the zoo during spring break. We had a blast this year especially because Eden was old enough to take it all in. Our highlights were the wrestling grizzly bears and the dancing elephant.

On the potty already?

Wow...at seventeen months our little miss independent wants to be like Big Sis and sit on the potty...so far we've made it two times...yippee!

Well, Hello Dolly!

My Mom got my Sis Anna and I tickets to go see Hello Dolly at the 5th Avenue in Seattle! It was an amazing show and an incredible day! It was so fun to spend time with two of my most favorite people and it was the first time I had spent a whole day away from Eden! It was nice to have a little Mommy time, thanks girls!!

Student of the Week

The first week of April Ezri was student of the month at preschool. She got to create a collage all about her and brought in special treats for her class! We are very proud of our little preschooler.

(Easter and some other silly Teasley stuff yet to come)

exciting news

2009-03-19T13:34:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to share that we are thrilled to have a new sister and auntie joining the family! Levi's brother Nolan proposed to his girlfriend Morgan this week and we couldn't be more excited to have such a sweet and beautiful new addition to our family! Congratulations you two! We love you!

small and precious moments...and yes we're still here!

2009-03-18T21:55:00.000-07:00

I've been terrible about blogging the last month and a half and will spend time catching up next week (spring break).

Lately, I just can't seem to get enough of our girls. I find myself standing and staring, watching their sweet little hands dig through toys, their eyelashes bat through blond hair as they play. I just want to freeze them in time, my treasure to cherish forever, but as all things must, they will grow and I'm trying to make the most of every moment! A few treasures I've stored in my heart this week have left an imprint that will last.

Yesterday, in the middle of crazy random weather, the sun decided to peak through the clouds in the late afternoon. The girls and I had music on and were dancing. Eden wanted up and just clasped her warm little hands around my neck. We danced through the sunshine, and chased big sister, I love the care-free spirit they bring out in me!

Today we had gorgeous sunshine and the girls and I ventured out for a long walk to Fred Meyer. Ezri had saved some money and had big plans of purchasing something special. The girls had on their sunglasses, with snacks in hand we headed down the street singing "we're going on a bear hunt" and the "hokey-pokey". Ezri picked out a princess camera and some markers and coloring pages for Sister. Eden fell asleep on Ezri's shoulder and woke up half-way home. The last stretch home, I had a sweet view of two pairs of pink converse waving in the air!

Thank you Ezri and Eden for the life you bring Daddy and I through your joyful and innocent little spirits!

flight of the bumble bee

2009-01-21T19:34:00.000-08:00

uncle nolly

2009-01-19T19:44:00.000-08:00

Levi's brother Nolan (Uncle Nolly as Ezri calls him) and his girlfriend Morgan came over for a visit this weekend! We hadn't seen them since the end of November because of the weather! We celebrated a belated Christmas, had a movie night, played at the gym, and just really enjoyed time together! Morgan, my Mom, Levi's Mom, and I escaped to a movie while the guys watched the play-off games! We had a great time with them! Nolan and Morgan have special place in the girls hearts and Ezri was counting the minutes for them to arrive! We love Morgan and are so thankful she's in Nol's life and ours! We've been laughing because Ezri is kind of "putting the pressure" on Nol...she's asked if she can be in their wedding and when they're getting married, and all of the above questions a little princess might come up with! Thanks for the fun weekend you two!

christmas 2008...finally

2009-01-19T18:49:00.000-08:00

I'm finally getting around to posting about our Christmas break after almost a month! Levi had a really long break this year and it was so nice having him around for such a concentrated period of time! The girls were so sad to see him go back to work...I think we have finally recovered. It was hardest on Eden...she walked around looking for Dada the first couple days.

Anyhow, the girls and I started off our break making Christmas cookies with Nana, while Levi and Pops went Christmas shopping in Yakima (those two are trouble when left to themselves)!! We spent a lot of time at home and enjoyed playing in the snow and visiting with neighbors and friends! We were able to spend a some time with our good friends Tyson and Tracy and their little one Kai, who are heading to Peru for the next two years in February! We are going to miss them but so excited as the take on this new adventure. You can check out their blog below to see where the Lord is taking them (Smiths "Ram" Page)!

We celebrated Christmas Eve with Levi's family at Jamma's house, after going to church. The Christmas Eve service was super special to me this year because my brother and sister and Dad all did music for the service and Dad gave his testimony! It was so special to hear the way the Lord has moved his heart over the years and such a gift to us to hear him share so openly about his faith! We had a great dinner and opened presents and then Ezri was anxious to get home to leave cookies for Santa! Once the girls were asleep and Santa and the Reindeer had snacks and a note left out, "Santa" went to work putting together the girls play kitchen they had asked for. It only took around 2 hours, much better than the 6 the store had told us it would take! I love Christmas Eve, talking about why we are celebrating, anticipating the joy of the morning and thinking about the true gift the Lord has given us... our reason for celebrating! Ezri really enjoyed talking about Jesus' Birthday this year and we spent many an afternoon playing Mary and baby Jesus! (I'm so upset because all of our pictures I down loaded from Christmas Eve and the first part of break are no where to be found and no longer on the camera...so sad)!

Christmas morning arrived and Ezri woke up around 7:00 (which most of you know is early in our house)! She came running out and then went straight back to her room...Levi joined her and she whispered to Daddy "there's are really big present out there!" Levi and I had so much fun watching the girls open their presents and Ezri had a truly thankful heart, which we appreciated!

Our parents joined us at our house for Christmas breakfast, which was really fun and a tradition we hope to continue! We had Christmas dinner at my parents house with most of the Fevergeon crew! Ezri and Eden had fun playing with cousins and Levi's Mom and Grandma were with us also! After dinner we got cozy and watched Walle! We had a truly special day and really enjoyed being surrounded by our loved ones (we were missing Nolan and Morgan though, who were such on the other side of the pass)!

We had a day to recover and then headed up to the my parents cabin in Cle Elum for a few days! There was so much snow! We had a great time playing outside! I love being up there...it's such a special place, full of so many memories...there is nothing like being up there when the snow is falling! Matty and Anna were up there with us along with Anna's brothers! It was so fun to have time with them and Levi loved getting some snowboarding in with them on the hills around the cabin!

We finished out the break just enjoying each other at home and we celebrated New Years with some friends, ringing in in the new year Eastern time! Levi enjoyed getting to be home for all the play-off games and we were able to catch up with friends we hadn't seen in a while! All in all we started off the New Year with full hearts after such a nice break home together!

Ezri's post

2009-01-12T15:09:00.001-08:00

Ezri wanted to write her own post on our blog...here it is

jjjjfnieunfg6inunnj6yuh uyhbybyybiyiiiiiyiiyyyyy yyyyy yyyyydddddds0 dddaaaaaaaaa[-'.['';//jifjkgo;p.u oo8088l8-l000rt]/6[yyp8pmmb v szfv xvzxl;l.l gllllllllllllll hhllululyj jj j,gkgg gjviuuuuuubvnubib6nubnbbnb6nb66bnuierunruynycdxbvb xczdcvbbhvgvyvtyytvpo9uikyiuuuuuuuuuuuuuyuu y hkmmmfj9f6566kg66-yreeyyrtygggghhggjjvvnvnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnn f f f f f dxvvvvvvxdxdsz

Ezri was telling everyone about her time with Momma today...coloring and playing!

...the last m&m

2009-01-12T15:01:00.000-08:00

ezri and i have been sitting together coloring in a coloring book, eating m&m's while sister is napping. the phone rang...after answering ezri handed me the last m&m in the bowl. when i hung the phone up, she said she saved the last one for me! my heart is full...i guess m&m's not only melt in your mouth, but they can melt your heart!

(christmas pic's to come, i just haven't had enough time to sort through them all!)

snow fun

2008-12-18T11:30:00.000-08:00

The girls and I ventured out into the beautiful snowy morning...cotton ball like snowflakes! We had fun in the sled and making snow angels! This was Eden's first time in the snow...she seemed to have fun, but getting the snow gear on was torture! I love the sound of the snow falling! We came in and warmed up the cocoa and Christmas music!

a special visitor

2008-12-18T11:13:00.000-08:00

Ezri meeting baby Maya (sorry the picture's a bit blurry)
(Molly, Tyler, and the girls)

This past weekend our friends Ty and Molly came up from Oregon for a visit! It was so good to see them...in August they welcomed a precious baby girl to their family - Maya! We have been waiting to meet her, just looking at pictures wasn't cutting it! Maya, of course, is beautiful and soooo sweet! She looks just like her Daddy!

Ezri loves seeing Ty and Molly and often asks about them! This was their first time meeting Eden and she followed in her sisters suit...and has a special place for Ty and Molly in her heart! Ty and Molly have a special way of making the girls feel so important...it's neat to have friends that love your kids that way! Maya was a true hit and Ezri hasn't stopped talking about her!

I love watching Tyler and Levi together...the minute the see each other it's like time takes a step backward and we are in high school again! Their conversations are mostly in sound effects and Ace Ventura and Dumb and Dumber quotes! No one makes Levi laugh like Ty!

Thanks for trekking through the snow friends, we had a sweet time!

christmas pictures

2008-12-11T12:13:00.000-08:00

I attempted to get in touch with my photography skills and took the girls outside in hopes of at least one good Christmas card picture! I was surprisingly pleased...the girls wore hats my Baba knitted...I love them!

gingerbread men and christmas trees

2008-12-11T11:11:00.000-08:00

This weekend we pulled out all of the Christmas decorations, put lights up outside, decorated our Christmas tree, and made gingerbread cookies! And, of course my favorite, pulled out the Christmas music! We had a great time...especially when the gingerbread men escaped the oven-they left a trail of notes saying "Run, run as fast as you can! You can't catch me I'm the Gingerbread man!" along with a clue of where to go next!

We only put a few ornaments on the tree this year because of our little Eden, but Ezri used most of our others to decorate a small tree in her room! I've loved watching Ezri get into the holiday spirit! Her favorite thing to play right now is Mary and Joseph - she either plays with her nativity or comes out dressed like Mary and pretends Eden is baby Jesus, Levi or I get to be Joseph! It's really fun talking with her about why we celebrate Christmas because she can grasp the concept better this year!Oh, and our tree couldn't be any more girlie...it has pink lights!

mickey mouse clubhouse

2008-12-11T11:03:00.001-08:00

Last Friday Ezri had some friends over to play for her birthday! Everything was Mickey Mouse themed! We had Mickey cupcakes, made Mickey and Minnie ears and Mousekaspotters, and played Mickey-Mickey-Donald! The kids seemed to have a great time...so did Levi and I!

happy birthday sunshine!

2008-12-04T16:52:00.000-08:00

Ezri turns 4 years old today...all Levi and I keep saying is we can't believe she's 4 already! The time is going to fast! Our sweet little sunshine has had a fun birthday celebration, excluding the fact we already celebrated early with family! Yesterday, she spent the evening with Nanz and got to have her first real pedicure and manicure...she can't stop talking about it! Today she was able to celebrate at preschool; she made a birthday crown which she has had on all day, got to bring in Mickey Mouse cookies, and her class sang "happy birthday." We enjoyed the afternoon together and went to the Ware Fair at the college with our friend Melissa and tonight she's going on a date with Daddy to see a movie...so fun!

Ezri is our little ball of sunshine! She has a strong, yet sweet personality and is always surprising us by the things she says, does, and remembers! She loves playing anything make-believe and usually narrates her play by a made up song! Ezri is a true snuggler and is always hanging onto one of us and saying "I love you." We hope that never changes! She's a super big sister and is really into teaching and showing Eden things! She's still loving preschool and is really starting to recognize letters and numbers...I love it!

Ezri we pray that over this next year you would continue to grow in your love for the Lord! That He would guide your heart and continue to bless you in all that you are doing and learning! We pray that you would be confident in who you are and who God has made you to be, that no one or thing would cause you to doubt the young lady that you are! We pray over your relationship with Sister that is would always be a special, strong bond that you two hold because she will forever be yours! We ask Lord that you would protect Ezri physically and bless her health. Lord that you would continue cultivating in her a kind heart that desires things of You! Thank you for our beautiful baby girl and the true gift she is to us- thank you Lord that you love her even more than we do and you know the plans you have for her! Amen

Looking back 4 years:

We were living in Packwood, Washington the year Ezri was born and commuting over White Pass during the winter anticipating her arrival! The Lord truly had His hand in the weather because He held off the snow until after Ezri was born!

I was such a nervous Mama, wanting to make sure I paid attention to all the right labor signs! Ezri was born on a Saturday and the Wednesday night before I thought maybe my water broke. After consulting Dr. Larson, we decided to head to Eburg Thursday morning. My water hadn't broke (which is very obvious to me now) so I was sent home to rest. He gave me a sleeping pill that night, which made me sleep incredibly and I woke the next morning having contractions.

We labored all day at my parents house (which was special because we had family there with us) and then around 5pm we headed into the hospital! I labored for a long time, spent some time in the tub, walked, and finally needed an epidural! Once some of the pain was eased I could rest a little more and by 3am started pushing! I pushed and pushed, but we weren't making much progress. By 6am Dr. Larson started saying we might look into other options and I just knew I didn't want anything other than an natural delivery. Maybe it was motivation, but I really think the Lord heard my prayers and after 4 hours of pushing we met our baby girl at 7:01am. Ezri Shannon weighed 7lbs 7oz and was 19 1/2 inches long. She came out as curious as she is now, and just looked around...she laid on my tummy and just looked at Levi and I! Neither one of us will forget the first time we saw those big eyes! She had a head of dark hair that we were surprised by and deep blue eyes (which are now green)!

We are so thankful and proud of our precious Ezri...we love you sweet girl! Happy Day!

thankful

2008-12-04T16:25:00.000-08:00

Thankful is the only way to describe the way we walked away from our Thanksgiving weekend! We had such a special time as a family and with extended family...we are truly blessed! In spite of feeling so thankful for all wonderful people we were with, we spent most of the time eating (or so it seemed). We started off our long weekend preparing for Thanksgiving dinner at Nanz and Pops house, making all the dishes we could the night before! Thursday we woke up and watched the Thanksgiving day parade...Ezri was so into it and kept yelling for us to "look, look, Mama, and Daddy." I don't know what we were thinking but we had waffles for breakfast then headed to Jamma's for dinner-round 1 and then to Nanz and Pops after the Seahawks game for dinner-round 2! We had so much fun seeing cousins and played a few fun games- quarters (which Eden was super entertained by) and battle of the sexes (the boys won)!

(Eden playing "quarters")

Friday we celebrated Matty's 25th birthday with more eating at the Pasta Co. and then went downtown for Moments to Remember! The girls loved walking through the live nativity and Ezri kept yelling "Jesus, Jesus, Jesus...we're going to see Jesus!" We watched the lighting of downtown and the local ballet studio perform...Eden tried kept licking the window we were watching them through...yuck!

(Ezri and Daddy waiting in line to see "Jesus, Jesus!")

(All Eden wanted to do was walk...you go little sister)

(Ezri and Eden watching the ballerina's, Eden was cleaning the window)

Saturday we escaped for a movie date with Nolan and Morgan and then celebrated Nolan's 25th birthday with again more eating at the Yellow Church cafe!

All in all we had a great weekend and loved the concentrated time with our fam's!

snuggling sisters

2008-11-20T10:40:00.000-08:00

Usually in the morning when Levi's getting ready for work, Ezri comes running into our bed and I usually have Eden in with us already (nursing). This is how the two girls ended up this morning...nothing like snuggling with your sister!

our little cheerleaders

2008-11-19T15:12:00.000-08:00

Ezri loves to pretend she's a cheerleader (I shouldn't say pretend...she really says she is one)! Eden loves to whatever Big Sis is doing...enjoy the cheer leading show! Make sure to check out Eden's "jumps"!(You might want to turn off the music below before you play the video)

tag...

2008-11-06T15:06:00.000-08:00

I was tagged a while ago...I'm supposed to share 6 things about myself that you might not know! It's taken me so long to write because I've had a hard time coming up with things, but here we go, I'll give it a try!

1. I love having a warm drink...my favorite is a peppermint hot chocolate from Starbucks (they have peppermint whip cream)! The best part is when the holiday cups come out...I get excited about silly things! It's usually a treat for me to buy a drink and I often reuse my cup, just because I like how it feels in my hands!

2. Play, play, play...my favorite way to spend free time with Levi is to do something active. I love to play soccer together, pass the football or baseball, water ski or jet ski, shoot hoops...you name it...I just really enjoy doing those physical things that get your heart rate up! I've recently gotten into biking and enjoyed riding the girls around this fall in the bike cart. I'd love to pursue rock climbing a little more...one thing we get to take advantage of at the high school (they have a rock climbing wall). I'm looking forward to snow and snowshoeing as a family this year! It's been hard to adjust those activities with having kiddo's and I never feel like we play enough, but now we just try and approach it from a different angle!

3. Popcorn is my favorite treat. I try and find any reason to make it, so we have lots of movie nights! (But it has to be the homemade kind...no microwave)!

4. I'm terribly afraid of heights. I know hard to believe if I like rock climbing, but there is a safe feeling when you are in a harness! The older I get the more nervous heights make me...Levi thinks it's funny and often teases me...thanks babe! It makes me a bit of a nervous Momma therefore I hover over the girls, especially walking up stairs, taking an escalator, etc.

5. Art is my passion! I love to create and especially paint. I never really have time for it or don't really make time! It's not realistic with two young babes, but if we had an extra room in our house I would make it an art studio!

6. I really enjoy cooking, but can't stand the smell or really the feel of raw meat. If I cook a whole bird, usually Levi cleans out the insides for me. I get over it because I have to, but in a perfect world I wouldn't have to touch it before it's cooked!

So I'm supposed to tag someone else...so Anna, Molly, Erin, Tracy, and Brooke I tag you!

Our big girl

2008-11-06T15:01:00.000-08:00

Eden had her 12 month well child check up today. She's 24lbs (90%) and 30 inches long (between 70-90%). Dr. Larson just said she's a proportionate, big girl! Everything else is great...thank goodness for healthy babes!

Party Time!

2008-11-03T12:50:00.001-08:00

Yesterday we had a birthday party for Ezri and Eden! It was Eden's actual birthday and Ezri's is on December 4th. But considering they are so close together, we celebrated both girls!

Ezri wanted a Mickey Mouse Clubhouse party, which was fun! We were so blessed by our family and friends that came to celebrate with us! Ezri blew us away with a truly thankful heart, she made sure to tell everyone thank you for her gifts and hugged each one without any prompting! We were so proud of her!

Eden was a little timid with her birthday cake, but in the end she dove right in...frosting everywhere! She was not to into the present thing, but love carrying around my Teta Camille's cell phone; it was all we could do to pry it away from her! We had a really fun day, and felt so thankful for all the incredible people in our lives!

our BABY turns 1

2008-11-03T12:25:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was Eden's first birthday! I can hardly believe how fast this year has gone. She is our little joy and has made our family feel complete! What a beautiful blessing this past year has been with her in our lives!

Looking back:
We took Ezri trick-or-treating last year and I was so ready for our little bundle to arrive! I had hoped that all the walking would kick labor into gear! Eden was due on November 1st, which was a Friday. No huge labor signs had showed up yet, I had been walking around at 3+ cm for the past month, so my Mom took Ezri and I to lunch that day and I just had a sweet time enjoy the last few days being a parent to one!

Friday night, I started having heavier contractions, but my labor took so long with Ezri that I figured we still had a ways to go! We went to bed and I tried to rest. Around midnight I thought I felt my water break, but wasn't sure. Levi assumed that things were still going to take a while so he told me to try and keep resting, but although I tried contractions were getting stronger and heavier! I managed to make it until 5:30am and could take it no more, I told Levi that we had to go to the hospital now! My Mom came over to stay with Ez and off we went. Once they had us in a room and Dr. Larson came and checked me, I was 7cm! (If there's a next time, I won't let Lev tell me to keep resting...ha...ha)

I asked for an epidural and we had to wait for the anesthesiologist to come in from somewhere else. Thankfully she showed up about an hour later and I had a little relief! Around 12:00, I felt like I just had to start pushing, everyone kept saying that I should just try and rest....again because of my previous labor, I pushed for 4 hours with Ezri). Needless to say I was ready, they called the Doc and he checked me and I was ready to push! I had myself so geared up for another long haul, but our sweet Eden JoAnna showed up at 12:36! She weighed 7lbs 13oz and was 19 inches long.

We were so shocked that she was a girl. We had chosen to not find out what we were having, but the nurse kept referencing boy...we thought she maybe slipped because it was indicated in our charts! Eden was such a surprise...and a true delight, just as her name means! Boy could she scream, but was such a great sleeper!

It was so precious to get to show her to Ezri. All throughout my pregnancy Ezri was sure she was having a baby brother. The week before Eden was born, she started telling us she was having a sister...and very adamantly I might add! I love how the Lord prepared her heart and what sweet sissy's they are now!

Eden-
Daddy, Momma, and Sister are so thankful to have you in our lives! You bring us joy by your silliness! We are touched by the way you snuggle, and love how adventurous you are! We pray over this year ahead that the Lord would guide and protect you, that he would cultivate a heart in you for him. We pray that God you give you a special relationship with Ezri and that your bond would be unbreakable! We love you sweet baby!

We celebrated yesterday with family and friends...pictures to come...Eden loved her cake...hee...hee!

"trick-or-treat"

2008-11-03T11:56:00.001-08:00

From downtown, to Pizza Hut, and on to houses, our girls had their share of excitement on Halloween! Ezri decided she wanted to be a princess and wore her Ariel dress (which we already had) we managed to pull together a fairy costume for Eden out of the dress-up also. Yippee, no money spent on costumes this year! Levi had a football game in Toppenish Friday, so missed all the excitement, but Nanz and Uncle Matty and Auntie Anna willingly jumped in to help out with the fun!

We trick-or-treated downtown first and then went to pizza with Nana (Ezri now calls her Nanz which I think has stuck). My sweet bro and sis met us and we headed for our friends neighborhood, which is primo trick-or-treating (close houses in a safe, small block = lots of candy in a short amount of time)! Of course Matt and Anna's dog Grommet was with us and that added to the fun for Ezri...she loves him!

Eden was pretty cute, she followed Big Sissy's lead, walked up to the doors, knocked and waited. She even tried to let herself into a few homes...too cute!

After trick-or-treating, we came back to the house and got to have some really special time with Matty and Anna! It was a sweet, relaxing evening...we all crashed in the girls room (Eden in her crib, Matty on the floor, and Ezri, Anna, Grommet and I and Ezri's bed). We just visited, laughed and enjoyed each other! I cherish my bro and sis, and our time was a true blessing!

Pumpkin Patch Adventure

2008-10-24T21:19:00.000-07:00

Ezri had her first preschool field trip this week, a visit to the pumpkin patch! Eden and I got to come along too! It was super cold, but fun! We picked out pumpkins, get lost in a corn maze, and the girls ate pumpkin muffins Mrs. G made!

Where's the baby?

2008-10-24T20:59:00.000-07:00

Our little comedian found a bag today and before I knew it she was hiding under it! Eden has such a funny little sense of humor; she waited quietly until I said "where is Eden?" before popping out! (Sorry the pictures are a bit blurry, she was moving too quick for me!)

So as you know this little one loves to get a rise out of us...this week we took a little outing to the dollar store. Eden was in the cart and Ezri was walking next to me. I bent down to help Ezri with something and when I stood back up Eden was where a fireman's hat. I have no idea where she grabbed it or when, but she managed to get it on her head! I was in cracking up! So of course we had to buy it, and Eden's actually been putting it on at home...too funny!

Russ

2008-10-24T20:38:00.000-07:00

Ezri has a little brown dog that she carries with her everywhere, I mean everywhere. Ezri even keeps her in her backpack while she's at preschool. Ezri decided to name her dog Russ, and of course Russ is a girl. Russ is Ezzi's special little friend, and one day last week she was outside with the wagon, the sled, blankets, books, and Russ. Ezri was tucked into the wagon reading and Russ was tucked into the sled behind her reading too! I watched out the kitchen window while Ez was playing and she'd get up and turn the pages of Russ' book and make sure that Russ was doing everything that she was. What a sweet little imagination...I don't know what we'd do if we ever lost Russ!

"Look Daddy's favorite...."

2008-10-15T20:19:00.000-07:00

I was at Albertsons today getting some french bread for dinner (and hit some of those great deals you mentioned Abby). We were walking down the one of the aisles and Ezri yells...yes yells..."Look Momma it's Daddy's favorite beer!" I was so embarrassed, like Daddy's always drinking or something! Grandpa Leonard had given Levi a case of lime Bud Light for his graduation present...I know we laughed too...So Ezri had seen the box sitting in the garage! Anyway I explained to Ezri that we don't yell about things pertaining to alcohol because Momma gets embarrassed! Like an almost 4 year old is supposed to know what beer is anyway!

pumpkins and playtime

2008-10-15T12:33:00.001-07:00

Pumpkins:

We planted pumpkins this summer and ended up with about 22 little ones in our garden after Ezri's last count! I've been promising Ezri that we'd decorate some soon...this morning we did and Ezri created Kendra! She drew a face on her and then cut out legs, arms, and a crown...too cute! She's been playing with her pumpkin since!

Ezri took a picture of her pumpkin too...great picture Sister!Playtime:

Ezri and Eden have been playing together a lot lately, which melts my heart to watch! The other day I came into the playroom and Ez had Eden all made-up in dress up clothes! Eden had a big smile, you could tell she felt like a big girl!

Ezri decided to play beauty shop on another occasion (which we do a lot because of Jamma). She had Eden in the rocking chair combing her hair. Eden loves books and is always carrying around one, she had Cinderella in her hand that day and was sitting looking at her book while Big Sis did some styling! Got to love it!

I just enjoyed these pics and thought they'd deserved to be shared!

Happy "Prosserversary"

2008-10-11T16:23:00.000-07:00

Last night Ellensburg High School played their rival football team...Prosser! Prosser for those of you who aren't from the Burg, has a pretty tough football program and it is the goal every season to BEAT PROSSER! Well even though the Bulldogs held their own last night they lost in the last few minutes of the game...but will most likely have a chance to try again in post-season play!

Anyway...last night was what Levi dubbed our "Prosserversary." Ten years ago during Levi's senior year and my junior year of high school, after his Prosser game (which was a neck and neck loss as well), Levi asked me to be his girlfriend. Ooooooooo! I don't really remember all he said, but he walked me out to the car after the dance that followed the game and said something to the extent of "I've been having fun with you and would like to keep hanging out." We've been together since and the rest is just history I suppose!

Happy Prosserversary Babe!

friends

2008-10-08T16:01:00.000-07:00

okay last post for today...

We had our good friend's, Scott and Abby's two youngest daughters over this morning to play...Karis and Avery!

The girls had so much fun playing together and it was Eden's first little play date! Just wanted to share a few of the pic's of the girls playing outside. They were washing the playhouse and kitchen! Ezri and Karis of course were in dress-up, but Karis had a wardrobe change in the middle!

growing

2008-10-08T15:00:00.000-07:00

So...we've hit a few neat stages in the growth of our girls this past week!

I'll start with Eden. She's such a sweet, yet fiery little thing with crazy determination! She's been trying to walk for the past three weeks, taking at most about 7 steps at time. I think we're pretty much there...Eden walks from one piece of furniture to the next all through the house. You can just see how proud she is of herself, and she is trying so hard to keep up with sister! We can't believe we have a little one walking at 11 months...way to go girl! Eden is also climbing everything, the dishwasher when it's open, the little rocking chair, and even toys to get on the play table...yikes! She's been talking a little more too, I was holding her while making dinner this week and said "hot" as we were by the stove, and she said "hot" right back. So we've now added that to her list of words: dog, Dad, Mama, sis, Ez, and hi!

Here's a short video of her walking from Ezri's tent to the couch...sorry it's sideways...I learned my lesson and will hold the camera horizontally next time!

Ezri and I had some time together on Sunday. I was the parent helper in her Sunday School class and Levi stayed home with Eden who had the sniffles. We had fun in class and then decided to stay for the next service for worship. The service was structured a little differently than normal and communion was offered during worship, for you to serve yourself and go when you felt led. I explained to Ezri what communion was (the best I could in kid terms) we talked about how Jesus died for us and how he lives in our hearts...that of which she'd heard before. I told her she didn't have to take communion but could if she wanted and she did. We sat together and I had her repeat after me as we took the bread and juice. I was a teary mess because it was so precious. After that she just snuggle me while we finished worship. On the way home, I asked Ezri more questions to make sure she understood what we had just done and explained if you believe in Jesus then you can ask Him into your heart to be in charge of your life. We'd talked about it before (Ezri asks lots of questions) but she didn't want to ask Jesus into her heart then. On Sunday she did...it was so precious, driving home from church she repeated after me (in kid words) and told Jesus that sometimes she does yucky things, to forgive her, and asked Jesus to live in her heart! The water works continued for me! We celebrated by getting donuts!

I know she's still a little young to understand completely what it all means, but Sunday night as we were praying at bedtime, we asked her what she was thankful for and she said "that Jesus lives in my heart."

Oh, the hearts of children...I suppose that is why God asks us to come before Him with childlike hearts!

"blue and white...bulldogs fight"

2008-09-30T21:47:00.000-07:00

Obviously, we spend a lot of time around football practices and games. Ezri's eyes are always on the cheerleaders ("cheerdears" as she calls them). This past week the Ellensburg High School cheer team hosted a mini cheer camp and of course Ezri was thrilled to get to be a part of it. She couldn't wait to learn cheers and was especially excited about seeing Butch the bulldog! So on Thursday afternoon we spent a good deal of time picking out the perfect outfit to wear to cheer camp...she was so exited! They practiced from 4-7pm, which was way too long for the little ones, but Ezri was a trooper! She learned a dance and a cheer!

Friday night we got bundled up in our warm, bulldog colored clothes, and headed to the game. Ezri wanted to sit with all the mini-cheerleaders in their little reserved section. Eden and I sat close, but were far enough away for Ezri to feel like a big girl! At half time the girls found their leaders and lined up to perform...I've never seen so many cute little girls! As the girls walked out on the field, they were mobbed by parents with camera's and I have to admit my parents and I were at the front of the pack! Ezri remembered a few of her moves and was great at shaking her pom poms! I know I'm a little partial, but she was so cute! Her highlight of the evening was getting her picture with Butch! We drove home from the game cheering "here we go bulldogs, here we go!"

I don't know, Daddy might have to adjust to being a cheer parent...hee...hee!

feeling blessed

2008-09-26T11:23:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was my birthday...27...each year closer to 30 gets a little harder to believe. But, regardless I was blessed by my family and friends! Not that I expect or feel I deserve gifts or to be fussed over, but there is nothing more uplifting than to know that you are loved by some amazing people! My sweet husband sent a beautiful bouquet of flowers, and of course remembered my favorites- gerbera daisies! My parents sent flowers too, and my awesome brother and sis sent a hilarious e-card and had a gift certificate waiting at my parents house. I had lots of great phone calls with friends. Levi still has more planned for Saturday, which is more than necessary, but I love the way he makes me feel so cherished! For me, it wasn't about the gifts but to just feel so overwhelmed by the blessings the Lord has placed in my life! So I guess what I want to say is thank you to all of the incredible people in my life for letting me share in yours! I love you more than you know!

Lord, thank you for the gift of fellowship, friendship and family! Thank you that we can experience your heart through relationships!

September

2008-09-24T21:54:00.001-07:00

The month is coming to a close and I've been bad about keeping up with posting. We ended the month of August with a bang by finally purchasing our house...we're so excited! We spent more time than anyone should at the Kittitas County Fair, checking out the animals, eating too much, and riding the rides with Ezri. Now that school has started for both Levi and Ezri we are getting into the swing of a little bit busier lifestyle. Ezri is loving school and can't wait to go, we've been so proud of her as she shares with us bits about her time! I'm enjoying my time with Eden while big sis is at school. Eden is quite the comedian and keeps us laughing. She has 6 teeth now and a big toothy smile. Eden loves to climb so I can't keep her out of my sight for very long...she usually ends up standing on the girls' little rocking chair...ever our little dare devil! Each day its seems the girls are becoming closer and closer...we love the friendship we see evolving between the two of them! September has also brought fun times with friends, a few family nights together, time with grandparents, lots of bike rides with Mama, making new friends with insects (specifically Esa the praying mantis), and lots of football.

This week we had our first Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) meeting. We had about 25 kids over for dinner, Levi shared a short message, and we played some Wii and a little DDR! We are praying that the Lord will continue to draw kids in and that He will make himself know through EHS athletes! Last weekend I also got to have some special time with my grandparents (Baba and Didi). The girls and I went over with Nana, so we could learn how to knit and just have some time together. Our time was sweet! I love spending time with Baba and Didi and the time I had with Baba learning to knit will forever be a cherished memory!

Check out our slide show below...there are some photo's from our life this past month!

September Happenings

2008-09-24T21:49:00.001-07:00

"see...I've got my tears on"

2008-09-11T12:10:00.001-07:00

Ezri and Eden are playing in the playroom. Ezri has horded a ridiculous amount of toys in the hallway. She says she's playing with Eden, but really she's just guarding her stash. Eden is trying to grab a my little pony and Ezri has Eden by the waste. Eden in screaming in a frustrated tone, while Ezri is yelling in the whiniest voice possible..."Sister No!"

I tell Ezri she has enough ponies that she needs to give Eden one!

Ezri runs into her room yelling "It's all my fault...see Mama I'm crying."

I say "Ezri you need to come here it's important that we share with Sis, and I don't see any tears."

Ezri runs back into the playroom, making her best sad face, minus tears and says in a sassy little voice "See mama...I've got my tears on!" and then stomps back into her room!

Ezri-isms

2008-09-08T22:32:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to share a piece of what keeps me entertained all day with my sweet girls! As you know Ezri has quiet the imaginative little mind. Here is some of what I heard today:

Ezri yelling to Eden in the playroom while I was doing dishes...
"Shima, Shima, Shima you really need to stop wiggling out of my legs! Shima, I mean it!"
Eden is squealing and yelling, but Ezri continues. "Shima, Shima, it's okay!" I hear Eden trying to escape the playroom, and as her face pops around the corner, Ezri comes running out as well to say "Mama, I calmed her down! I burped her and made her stop crying!" By now Eden has almost made it to me in the kitchen. Ezri grabs Edens legs and starts to pull her back to the playroom saying "Listen, it's really important..." At this point Mom had to intervene.

Ezri talking to me during lunch today...
"Mom, that's an a-choe-pie-pie." I ask what and a-choe-pie-pie might be and she says "Mom, and a-choe-pie-pie is the middle of a flower" and points to the flowers on the table! Who knew, I am constantly educated by my sweet little sunshine!

Ezri praying before bed...
"Dear Jesus, you are the Father that lives in our hearts. You made Mommy and Daddy. They were babies, but they growed up and now they are Mommy and Daddy! Thank you for Mommy and Daddy and Sissy! I love you Amen! Mommy I love you!" I thought my heart would melt!

Ezri singing a night-time song...
"A rose, a rose, a choo choo choo, a rose, a rose, a choo choo choo." One of Ezri's many made-up serenades at bedtime...I love listening to her sing!

walking hand in hand

2008-09-05T11:38:00.000-07:00

I was really encouraged by this today and thought I'd share...it's today's passage out of Jesus Calling...a daily devotional written by Sarah Young.

"I am your best friend, as well as your king. Walk hand in hand with Me through your life. Together we will face whatever each day brings: pleasures, hardships, adventures, disappointments. Nothing is wasted when it is shared with Me. I can bring beauty out of the ashes of lost dreams. I can glean Joy out of sorrow, Peace out of adversity. Only a Friend who is the King of kings could accomplish this divine alchemy. There is no other like Me!

The friendship I offer you is practical and down-to-earth, yet it is saturated with heavenly glory. Living in My Presence means living in two realms simultaneously: the visible world and unseen, eternal reality. I have equipped you to stay conscious of Me, while walking along dusty, earthbound paths."

school...off and running

2008-09-05T09:29:00.000-07:00

It's so hard for Levi and I to believe, but Ezri had her 1st day of school yesterday! She woke up with a little cold, but was not going to let a runny nose stop her from her 1st morning at Jack and Jill's House! Ezri picked out her outfit (a pink skirt, with a shirt that said "sweet sunshine" so appropriate), she told me how to fix her hair, and in spite of being groggy couldn't get the smile off her face! When Eden and I dropped her off she hung her coat and backpack up in her cubby, found her name and placed it on the board for attendance, then was off to play! She is a kid that loves to learn and thrives when a part of any social setting! You could see that she felt like a big girl, I love her confidence!

Eden and I had a great time together at home...I think that's what kept the tears from coming when I dropped Ezri off! It was great to have three hours of one-on-one time with Eden! She is becoming such a little comedian and had me laughing with silly faces she was making at me!

At 11:30 we went and picked up Sister! It was one of the cutest things I've ever seen...all the kids were lined up on the porch of the preschool, backpacks on ready to be picked up by moms and dads! Ezri kept saying "Preschool is so much fun, Mama!" I'm so thrilled she enjoyed it so much...she's counting the days until Tuesday, when she goes again!

Preschool and Parades

2008-08-20T12:51:00.000-07:00

Yesterday Ezri had her Preschool orientation, which was a big deal! She's so excited to be going to school and it was so neat for her to get to see what we've been building up for the last 6 months. She's attending Jack and Jill House and her teacher is our good friend Melissa Gillaspy. Mrs. Gillaspy has worked so hard to get the preschool ready and it's neat to see how God has blessed her as she's taken on this new adventure! Ezri was able to meet a few of her classmates, all of who we already knew, hee hee! She found her cubby, put her birthday marker on the class calender, had snack on the parachute, and played in the sand box! Wow, she's growing up so quickly!

Last night, while Levi was at football practice, the girls and I venture out to follow the EHS marching band as they get ready for the Rodeo parade! Ezri loves instruments and Eden can't help but bust a move when she hears music, so it was a really exciting to get to follow a real band! Ezri pretended to play the violin, and Eden yelled and waved her arms as we walked all over town...who knows...maybe we have two musicians on our hands!

Friends

2008-08-20T12:44:00.000-07:00

Ezri loves nothing more than playing with her friends! I'm so thankful that she has such a special group of beautiful girls to grow up with! Here are a few of them playing at the park during our small group potluck Sunday!

strike a pose

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

Following in Ellensburg tradition, we took the girls to the Rodeo Kick-off Breakfast and Junior Rodeo Parade this Saturday! Ezri loves to join in any kind of festivity (kind of like her Momma)! She was thrilled to dress up with Sissy like cowgirls and ride in the wagon through town. We pulled together the best of what we had to make their "western attire."

They were both pretty in pink as they rode in the wagon; Ezri waving with an almost perfect princess wave, and Eden was in awe of the ponies walking next to us!

After parading down Pearl Street, we walked through the Farmers Market with family and friends. Ezri had her face painted and she chose a pink cat. You could tell she was pretty proud of her sparking face. With all the ladies: Nana, Auntie Anna, Auntie Cheryl, Sarah, Leah, and the rest of the gang encouraging her we had a short modeling show. Ezri soaked in the attention as everyone yelled directions: "put your hand on your hips, bend you legs, smile and turn your face." As you can tell from the pic's, we have a Rodeo princess in training!

Eden

2008-08-12T14:39:00.000-07:00

Sunday we had Eden dedicated at the church. The more and more I reflected on the concept of dedication, I've come to realize what a momentous event it is in the lives of our children. It's a physical way for us as parents of acknowledging how we must hand our children over to the Lord, because they truly are His. It's real moment of faith and also inspiration as you look out at the congregation watching your sweet baby, and to know that not only is her life in the Lords hands, but forever more will she have a church body encouraging her, praying for her, and showing her the love of Christ!

Becoming a Momma has been the greatest gift in my life, I don't think I truly grasped the love God has for me until I discovered the life changing love I have for my girls! Looking into their sweet faces, I see the love I have for Levi and I see the amazing handiwork of our Creator. They are masterpieces that He has entrusted into our care. I love the fact that we have a church body to lift us up in caring for these precious creations we've been gifted!

"There is something infinitely precious about having a daughter. Mine, from the moment she was born, drew from me reserves of tenderness, protectiveness and fight I never new I possessed. I wanted to change the world overnight, to make it a safer, easier, better place for this miniature woman, this receptacle of all my dreams and aspirations, this extension of myself." Michele Guiness

I say that Eden is my "sweet joy" and Ezri is my "ray of sunshine." I love to celebrate them because they not only bring a preciousness to they way we live life, but have caused me to draw closer to my Maker because He has shown me a new level of love and trust!

fishing fun

2008-08-12T13:43:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, we took my parents boat out for the first time to Lake Cle Elum. We had high hopes of water skiing and soaking up sun, but because the weather was so cold we opted for fishing.

It was Ezri's first time, Eden's too of course, and it had been a few years since the rest of us dusted off our poles. Our adventure began with a hunt for calm water, which we found across the lake. I'm not sure if calm is the word of choice, but it was as still as we could find considering the wind. Ezri manned the fish finder and we decided to put in anchor, which was entertaining in and of itself as Dad and Levi struggled to find a good hold. Once anchored we got our poles in, baited with power bait and worms. Levi caught a few tree stumps and old logs, while Dad wrestled with a new reel that wasn't cooperating. Ezri sat with her pole in the water for a while, but was more excited about eating licorice and watching the fish finder. I think Eden would have jumped in if we didn't have such a tight hold on her. Mom was cracking us up as she texted a friend hiding under a blanket, and Levi's Mom helped juggle lunches and babies.

We weren't having much success, but definitely lots of laughs. Levi and Dad decided we should rig our one working pole differently and troll. Dad spent a good half an hour getting it all ready and off we went, as Levi let out line. Just as Dad said "I'm not sure how much line is on that reel, make sure not to let too much out" Levi looked down in time to watch the last of the line escape into the lake along with the flashy business Dad had worked on, thus ending our fishing for the day. We had no fish to show from our adventure, but our hearts were full from the time we had together!

P-F Olympics...what a blast!

2008-08-05T12:30:00.000-07:00

As a little girl, we would spend many a holiday and special occasion with my great-grandparents, Grandma and Grandad Prichard (my Grandma Christie's parents). They had this beautiful house that over looked Rocky Bay, in Puget Sound. Grandma and Grandad were full of a fun spirit that was celebrated in all the fantastic and usually silly times we've shared at their home with our huge family. One of the silly things we'd do was a family Olympics; we called the Prichard Olympics, full of Olympic events with a goofy twist.

Grandma and Grandad are now celebrating in heaven...but Mom thought this summer would be a great time to resurrect the Olympics. So this Saturday, the whole family met at Mom and Dad's for two days of great fun. It was a blast to remember old traditions, as well as start new ones all the while thinking of Grandma and Grandad!

Because there are so many Fevergeon's now, we renamed our event the P-F Olympics (Prichard-Fevergeon). Everyone arrived at 10am on Saturday, coming from all directions- California, Oregon, and all across Washington. After hugs and a quick catching up, we got down to business. We divided up into three teams, created team flags, team cheers, and we even had a synchronized swimming performance for our opening ceremonies. Team captains carrying their team flags followed Mom in a lap around the yard as she ran in the Olympic flame. Once our flame had been lit, we sang the national anthem to a chorus of kazoo's. Our synchronized swimmers performed to the beat of "Everybody Dance Now", all wearing goggles, swim caps, and water wings...we even had a special solo from Uncle Denny!

Let the games begin...we had 9 events consisting of ping-pong, discus, basketball, volleyball, diving, relay, broad jump, tennis, and sumo wrestling. All the events had a silly spin. We all ended up soaking wet by the time the day came to a close. The "Bad News Boogers" dominated the games, coming in first. The "Blue Bugachoobas" (Ezri's team of course) took away the silver medal and the "Red Invaders" claimed the bronze. We had so much fun playing as a family and it was special to introduce this childhood tradition to our girls!

7 years...the perfect number

2008-07-30T08:44:00.001-07:00

On Monday we celebrated our 7th wedding anniversary! We both agree that each year has brought us closer together than we ever imagined we'd be! However, the past year has to be the best yet...7 is the perfect number! There is no greater joy then spending life with your best friend!

We went for a walk on Monday an were reminiscing of the past 10 years we've been together! We laugh because our story sounds like it should be in a cheap made-for-TV-movie: We started dating in high school, Steph had to make the first move...Levi was very shy in high school. Steph was a junior and Levi was a senior. Our first date was a Central Football game and we went with Levi's best friend Tyler! How appropriate to start our relationship with football! The rest is history- football captain married homecoming queen (how embarrassing to write). We stayed in our hometown to go to College and were married at ages 19 and 21.

It's fun to look back together and see where the Lord has taken us. We can't wait to see where He takes us in the future!

hip hip hooray!

2008-07-28T12:52:00.000-07:00

Levi had his defense for his masters degree this morning and he passed! Hip hip hooray! I'm bubbling with pride, he's put so many hours of hard work into this over the last two years! I couldn't have asked for a more amazing and committed husband! I am honored to be his!

we're going on a mole hunt

2008-07-28T12:38:00.000-07:00

Ezri spent some time with Pops yesterday helping him around the house! Pops' yard seems to attract an amazing amount of moles, in spite of the frustration it's rather comical the way the moles continue to show persistence. We laugh because as soon as he's seems to have them under control, a new hole shows up! Like a scene from Caddy Shack, Pops plans a new strategy and the moles seem to have a ready defence. Ezri helped put in a trap and another gadget...cross you fingers that it works this time! An added bonus was a wheelbarrow ride around the yard! Ezri holds a special place in her heart for her Pop Pops and she loves to be his little helper!

a playful week

2008-07-25T15:56:00.000-07:00

This week has been extra fun, with so many precious, playful moments between the girls! It's so neat to see how they are playing more and more together!

Ezri and Eden started drumming on the same bucket from the kitchen toys, as Ezri pounded the drum Little Sissy started singing...it was quite the show!!

Peek-a-boo! Ezri was playing outside in the princess tent and Eden was trying to keep up. Ezri decided that Eden was her cat and the two played house together...Eden was thrilled to have Sissy's attention!

I had the rare opportunity of some one-on-one time with Ezri while Eden was with Daddy! We went for a walk down the John Wayne Trail to collect rocks and other fun things! I think we came back with 5 lbs of rocks and every weed possible! I was carrying Ez on my shoulders home and we were singing "the Ants Go Marching" song. When we got the part "the ants go marching six by six and the little on stops to..." Ezri chimed in "tie his kicks." Wow...how clever! It was a very special hour to share with my sweet little love!

bugachoobas!

2008-07-25T15:34:00.000-07:00

We were sitting at the breakfast table this morning and Ezri looks over at me and says "Mommy...girls have bugachoobas." I asked what that meant and she said "Mommy, bugachoobas are boobies." What can I say, boobies will now forever be bugachoobas!

wheels and waves

2008-07-20T13:23:00.000-07:00

Oh, the looks on their faces were so proud! Both our girls figured out something new today and you could just see the feeling of accomplishment on their faces! Ezri attempted rollerblading with a pair we found at a yard sale, a bit big but lots of fun! Eden managed to pull herself up in the playhouse, just in time to wave a Daddy who was weeding the garden!

a lot of silly and a bundle of creativity

2008-07-16T20:23:00.000-07:00

We started this blog in hopes of connecting us to family and friends! We feel like we're part of an official club now that we ventured in to the world of blogging!

So with that said, here we go:

Now that we've added another little girl to our family life is full of so much joy! Eden has joined her sister in keeping us on our toes and always laughing. She is a bright little cookie who is constantly trying to keep up with big sis, which for our enjoyment makes a lot of silly business around the Teasley house! Ezri, ever so into dress up, has sister at her toes for beaded necklaces and Cinderella dresses...all of which heads right to her mouth. A whole new world when your crawling! Eden loves dancing with Daddy, and oh boy can she eat! We've yet to discover a food that she doesn't devour! Eden has started a copy-cat game where she mimics sounds that we make...very silly...and she loves blowing raspberries (which keeps us a little wet). Her smile is big and bright, showing off her two new teeth, and we can't get over all her blond hair! But no one can make her laugh like her big sister...it seems there's already a deep connection between the two of them!

Ezri never ceases to amaze us with her creativity! She is constantly singing and especially enjoys making up her own songs...one of which she has both of us constantly singing. The words to her song go "win-a-nuna-parch-win-piney", which are sung to a tune of her own making! She loves to play with her little sissy and is usually Eden's mama, or doctor, or hairdresser! In the case she's playing doctor, we are instructed to call her Doctor Feelsa...so cute! She has recently decided that she'd like to call Daddy Miss Relose, which sprung from pretending we were all sisters! Levi couldn't be a more fitted Daddy for this little one who is constantly wanting him to play, have a dance party, or throw her up in the air! She's loving swimming this summer and every spare moment we have we try an get up to Nana and Pops pool at the cabin! Wow...the tan this little one has is amazing!

What can we say, but that we are truly captivated by these amazing little girls!