Jackson Hole

A while ago we decided to go on a spontaneous trip to Jackson Hole for Clayton's moms birthday. I was a little nervous about driving the 5 hours with a 15 month old. We brought dvd player, bubbles, treats, toys and of course aunt and uncles really helped the trip. We did stop a few times to get gas or potty breaks which We would let Ruger out to stretch.

Then We stopped for Lunch and let Him play at a Carls Jr. Play Place for a first time. He thought it was pretty awesome until I climbed up to the top with Him. Here's a visual Me with Ruger sitting on my lap and We almost filling the entire tub slowly inching our way up. He wasn't to sure about being up so high, and to be truthful I wasn't either with every move we made the structure squeaked and groaned! I was happy to be on the ground after the slide and so was Ruger.

Ruger did pretty good except as soon as we drove up to the hotel He barfed...but Hey I'll take it because we were able to clean up super easy.

We had a blast we just hung out and went out to eat a lot and swam. Ruger like Me doesn't like to get wet. Other the a bath. So since we went swimming a lot, Ruger wasn't into that. So He either hung out with Me on the side or with Grandma and Grandpa. While Ruger was with Grandma and Grandpa we went swimming it was so fun! The pool went in and outside with a hot tub on both sides. So we were able to swim outside while it was snowing! Super fun experience!

The last time We went swimming Ruger and I were hanging out on the side and of course since He was in PJ's and not in the right swim wear, He wanted to get in! So Daddy took Rue into the pool only in His Diaper!!

Along with all the other boys in the family Ruger's favorite room of the whole hotel was the weight room. He kept wanting to lift with the boys.

We went out to eat A lot. Now Ruger is wanting to be more independent. Which means He wants to feed himself which also means BIG MESSES!!!

We had Clayton's youngest sister bunk with us during the trip. Which was super fun and helped with Ruger so much!! We had so much fun just hanging and spending time with Family! I loved having My family together for three days straight no distractions!!

We of course had to do some shopping!! Ruger's favorite purchase was of course the cotton candy from the candy store! We went out on a drive to see the wild life. Clayton was able to get all these moose to stand up with His own voice! Pretty impressive if I do say so to Myself.

The hotel was so nice. Each morning We had a Chef make us omelet in front of us. Plus the buffet was delicious! It was super cozy and fun. Can't wait to go back again!

Pumpkin Carving & Halloween 2013

This year we let Ruger join into the fun of pumpkin carving! I was totally expecting Rue to jump right in and get all messy like usual! Though I am pretty sure He was pretty grossed out! Unfortunately I cant upload the video but when I figure it out I will get it on here :)

This year for Halloween we were all Cowboys and a Cowgirl. Unfortunate I didn't get a good picture of all of us! I know I am so lame!  Ruger loved the whole Halloween experience! I mean what kid doesn't like walking around and getting lots of candy. Although He didn't like when it came to putting the candy into his bucket and not eating it right away. We had a few minor melt downs but nothing a sucker couldn't fix ;)

Pumpkin Land

This year We decided to take Ruger to a pumpkin patch to pick out his first pumpkin! We went to pumpkin patch in Orem with my best friend from High school Kim  and her little girl Quincee. Ruger was so cute with Quincee He was walking all around the patch but would randomly stop turn around and walk back to little Q and check on Her.

Hot dog roast/ Thanksgiving Point/ Ruger's First Moive

Clayton has been itching to go up the Canyon and roast hot dogs. So last Monday up the Canyon We went It was just a Mollie, Sawyer, Derrick, Clayton, Ruger and I. Though a small group we had fun! Like always. Ruger loves throwing Items into the River (rocks, twigs, leaves) and at several point would try to run straight into the river.
I think My favorite part of the night was when Derrick was fishing and Sawyer asked "Is that a real Life worm!?" What a cute.

I went with My cousins Whit and Jen and our kids to Thanksgiving Point Museum last week as well. It went pretty good. Ruger was loving it. He actually would go up to exhibits and check them all out. I think it would have lasted longer if  We hadn't gone during Nap time.

We attempted to take Ruger to the "Real" movies lat week as well. By "real" I mean it was at our local dollar movie theater that is knows as the "Sticky Shoe" because your shoes really stick.  It was free so It made it pretty easy to go and not feel like We wasted money on a movie. The movie started and We got settled with out treats in our seats, Ruger stared at the screen with a awed expression and ohhh awed. I looked at Clayton and said "This might work!!" I spoke to soon nor did I knock on wood....Less then 20 minutes into Turbo We left. Oh well we tried right? Hopefully next time we go It will last longer. We shall wait and see :)

People probably thought I was crazy taking a picture outside the dollar theater, but who cares I'm glad I documented the experience.

Cabin 2013

I love going to the cabin. There are no distractions just Family, Fun and of course FOOD!

 

 

We went boating like We always do at that Cabin. So it was Ruger's first time (last year He was to little) So He loved the boat until his life jacket was on then He was PISSED. So maybe next year it will be more fun *fingers crossed*. I did catch My first crawdad and it was kind of scary and adicting!! Ha but all good;)

 

* I just notice I skipped 4 and went to straight to 7 OPPS*

1. Ruger loves to climb the stairs, except going down is NOT a strong suit for Him.

2. He just started cleaning with a wipe. So cute, especially since I used to do the same thing.

3. Phillip finally got to hold Ruger, the food wasn't a bribe at all nor was the iphone.

7. Ruger and Bentlee playing LOVE IT!!

8. The first night it was Anna's birthday so We had to celebrate!

9. More playing!!

 

1. Everyone practicing the dance for Corey and Missy's Wedding.

2. Grandma finally got a cuddle in too.

3. The Grill Masters.

4. Ruger and Brynlee enjoying the outside.

5. Awful picture, but these to LOVE each other.

6. LOVE RUGER'S FACE!

 

 



Atkin Family Reunion (Ruger's first time camping)

I was super nervous for our Family Reunion last week. It was Ruger first time camping and I wasn't sure how He would handle sleeping outside and how I would do with Him being dirty! Surprising it went really well! The first night was super cold. I wasn't expecting it to be cold at all. I mean it August and its been bloody hot!! I mean it was see your breath cold. I luckily had over packed for Ruger. Clayton the night before asked if I really was bring all that (pointing to the HUGE pile of clothes). I packed several outfits for all kinds of weather. So He was dressed warm enough for nights and mornings plus sleeping between Clayton and I meant He was toasty. The next two nights weren't bad because we end using the sleeping bad we brought which we didn't the first night.

Ruger was a champ even through the rain! That might have been because during the worst of the rain storms we hung out in Grandma and Grandpa Atkins trailer. I am sure the Movie playing and snacks helped to. It didn't hurt to have lots and lots of  helping hands to hold or follow Ruger.
There were as-fault and cement trails everywhere so that helped with the whole Me being crazy about Ruger getting dirty, To My surprise Ruger was really clean the whole time. I few wipes was all it took to keep clean.


Here are so of the best moments:

1. Ruger wanted to climb everything and anything. Nanna had it under control.

2. Flying in the air can't beat that.

3. I finally got to cuddle My baby! He crashed and I took advantage of it.

4. Eating cobbler and watch a movie on the projection screen.

5. Of course we had to have a tantrum here and there.

6. Jaxen couldn't stay up any longer.

7. Ruger passed out on the way to the cabin from camping. To much fun.

8. Some of the kids at reunion. They were so fun!

9. Ruger got some kind of sugar every night before bed, He loved it. Though it made him super hyper and then He crashed.

Of course if all else fails you can just put your child in a dog kennel. We did it as a joke because He kept wanting to run everywhere. Though He didn't want to get out.

We had to capture Ruger's famous kisses. Wide open mouths.

1. I love the few moments He would just sit on My lap and enjoy the outside together.

2. Family picture, its not the best but hey memories right?

3. Ruger loved the water spigot, luckily He couldn't reach the handle.

4. Ruger and Great Grandpa Atkins.

5. I bought this stroller on the way to the campout because our other one is just to big. Now I'm thinking He is almost to big for the stroller.

6. Grandpa Atkins and His youngest grandchildren.

7. Cousins. I love watching Ruger interact with cousins.

8. Brothers helping cook.

9. Link loved cuddling Zoey.

We had a blast I loved being outside and having Ruger explore and experience camping because that is were some of my absolute favorite childhood memories are.

Ruger's 12 Month Photo Shoot (Finally)

I decided to just to Ruger's 12 month photos just out of our living room today. I happened to be doing the pom poms for a shower that My aunt is doing on Saturday so I took advantage of the extra decorations and took a few pictures. I love this kid. He posed Himself and all. I just sat Him on a chair and then He did what He does best...just being ADORABLE. 

Cascade Springs & Steel Days

We went to Cascade Springs today with My family. It was wonderful. The mountains always leave Me feeling emotionally Refreshed. It was cool and just a blast.

Steel Days was kinda lame for Us this year. We really didn't do anything but the fireworks. Life just gets so hectic. Though I am so glad we did the fireworks. I was super nervous for Ruger's reaction. The fireworks on the Fourth of July scared him. It went awesome though! Ruger ohhh/awed and clapped the whole time. It was so fun. Plus He would go back and forth between Clayton and I. It means so much more when He chooses to come to Us. Unlike He when He was little and He was just got passed to whoever wanted to hold Him. We did get snow cones to celebrate Steel Days and that it ALWAYS a hit. 

Dear Ruger (12 Months)

I find My self so emotional lately. Especially thinking of you being a toddler and not a baby. You are growing up so fast. Like the famous song "I wish I could save these moments put them in jar. Keep you just the way you are. I know I can't but I wish I could". Even though I feel that way, I still wouldn't want to go back because I LOVE the little person you are turning into. Your personality and quirks are so fun and make you a blast to raise.

I love watching you be you. Ruger you are such a busy bee. Always on the move, and keeping busy. There are so many time through out the day, you will be doing something and I think You are such your father! Daddy will always say "Just like your Mom". I can't help swell with pride. If its not exactly a compliment. Though that might seem weird to swell with pride because you do something silly I do or act like me. You are a part of Me and seeing that shine through brings Me such joy that We your father and I have made you. Why wouldn't I swell with pride:)

Holy Attitude! I didn't expect a attitude at such a young age. LIKE WOW. If you don't get exactly what you want when you want it, You will start scream/squealing. If that doesn't work you will pinch or even bite. NOT COOL. I am trying to teach You that, that isn't ok. Though lets be honest its really really hard to discipline a 12 month old. I am trying and I see some progress but it is slow VERY slow. It is working though. Mostly because everyone will laugh at your tantrums, then instantly it turns into a game and then Its really really hard to get you to stop.

Walking is now your main way to move, rarely do you crawl. I can always tell when your getting tired because your balance will basically disappear and you will fall constantly. I know it frustrates you. With a nap your back to your old self and the balance is back.

Hugs from You are probably My favorite! You will randomly stop what it is that you are doing and run and give someone a hug. Who ever you feel like give that extra little "I love you" to. Once you give the hug your back of doing your previous activity. Its so sweet to me that you will stop and want to give a hug. Just to show You love whoever you choose to hug. It just shows how sweet you are:)


You are becoming more and more independent every day. You try and doing things yourself instead of Us doing everything for you. For example you try and feed yourself by grabbing the spoon or fork. Though I know I should let you I'm not ready for that mess just yet.

You are into EVERYTHING. Cupboards, drawers, really anything you can open, that you shouldn't. Example...

You love  Daddy. You say Dad, Daddy, Dada all the time. When Dad gets home you light up and get so excited!! I love watching you two together. I am so grateful that you get to have such an awesome Father who loves you. If you happen to be napping when Dad gets home Dad waits very impatiently asking if He can just get you up right then, I say NO! So He will wait until you get up and then runs to get you ASAP. Heaven help us if you wake up before Dad has to leave for work, because YOU hate  when He leaves! Tantrum awaits. NO fun. Though I do LOVE that you love Your Father so much,  I don't love it so much at 6:30 a.m. though. We can nip that it the but and I would be just fine.

You absolutely love our family. Though Grandpa's and Uncles have your full attention. When grandpa's walk into the room your attention goes directly to them and you run into their open arms.

Fourth of July

It was Ruger's last first holiday. It makes me kinda sad. Writing this I'm getting a little teary eyed. Its crazy that Ruger's first year is coming to a end. It was a good last though. We started the day early way early. We went to the Provo Balloon festival. We got doughnuts and orange juice and met A few of My family members, the Gunnells, and the Houlins down in Provo.  Sadly when we got to the festival they canceled because of the weather 500 feet above us. We didn't let the weather cancel our fun. So we all sat down and enjoyed the morning and of course doughnuts. Ruger loved doughnuts. Every time I looked down He had another one in his hand.

We then had a BBQ with My family and then just went to My parents for fireworks. Derrick bought a thrity pack and We did a test run to see if Ruger liked the fireworks before we took Him to Thanksgiving Point for a big show. I'm glad We did the test run because Ruger wasn't a fan. He like fireworks for a distance but the loud ones weren't His Favorite.

Ruger Turns One...Almost.

We had Ruger's first birthday yesterday, and though He doesn't turn one till the 10th. It still doesn't seem real that my baby is no longer a baby! The day started of awful. Ruger woke up puking and then a blow out and then more puke. He then fell and got a bloody nose, So I was super stressed He wouldn't feel good for  the party. I went to my moms in the early afternoon and started to set up. A hour into decorating it started to pour!! I mean streams running down the side of the streets. I already had balloons and streamers up and just like  that they were gone! URGH so frustrating!! I just started to cry. I had My perfect set up in My head of what I wanted and then it was ruined!! I know I over reacted  now but I had put so much time and effort into this party that it was so upsetting seeing  it just literally melt and pop away.

I called My aunt and asked if We could have the party at Her house. She was amazing and at last minute was ready for us to come! A HUGE thanks to My Aunt Linda and Her wonderful kids for helping Clayton  and I set  up.  Another HUGE thanks to My family for helping set up and for watching Ruger while We set the party up. A super thanks to Lauren who saw  the rain in the middle of Her church and left because She knew I needed help and I that I would be stressing. So Family you saved ME!!  Of course a BIG thanks  to Clayton who put up with My stressing and helped so much!! Also thanks to everyone for the food you brought and presents you truly made it a special day!! Mollie thanks for getting streamers and balloons to replace the ones I lost!! One more HUGE THANKS to My wonderful Mother-in-law who sewed Ruger's birthday outfit! I'm in love with it.

They Party went Perfect. I am so glad its over! I got teary eyed through out the day because I can't believe its almost been a year since Ruger joined  our family. Its gone by WAY to fast! Though its been a hard,long,short,wonderful,fun year I am glad the party is over!

Here is the fun part the pictures and video!

Please excuse My singing voice!! Yikes! Ruger had already started to dig into His cake before we sang, because I was afraid He would cry,since He did at every other birthday We've gone to. I was so mad I forgot a candle!! Oh well right? At this point Ruger had a Huge clump of frosting in his palm and He was licking away.

Of course I want to remember the invitation so here it is! Plus a BIG thank you to Nic who put it together for Me!!

We still are going to do a little something on the 10th. Plus take Him to pick out his presents from Us. I am excited for that mostly because there won't be any stress involved! :)