Atkinson Family

December 2009 pictures

2010-01-09T22:07:00.001-08:00

It has been awhile. I transferred to shutterfly.com.
I am not sure what I like better.
I added some recent pictures, December 2009.

Potty with Elmo

Gymnastics

The Carousel right before our picture with Santa.

Making Christmas cookies!

Summer Pictures

2009-07-19T08:25:00.000-07:00

Poppy's summer started out with Carter's family in Richmond, Virginia and then a week at the beach in North Carolina. We had a great time and Poppy enjoyed Carter's family - she enjoyed the attention - all eyes on her at all the time.

Poppy found a chair to sit in on a day trip to Willminton, N.C., I don't have any more beach pictures this computer more later.

We left N.C. on the June 30th and drove to Mt. on July 1st and 2nd. We missed the Livingston, Mt. 4th of July parade on the 2nd by 6 hours. It was my hope that we would get to Mt. in time for the parade. Oh well, we got to attend the rodeo on the 4th. It was really fun. We had a great time as well with my family.

My niece, Ivy Ann, got to stay an extra week and we had fun with her as well. Biking, boating, swimming, walking, talking, hanging out, ...

We also had Poppy's 2nd bday before everyone left. She is unofficially "2".

We will leave for home @ the 25th. Wow, I only have 4 weeks before I go back to school. I only waited 10 months for this wonderful summer. I am so thankful I have a good job with lots of time off.

Here are the pictures to match to summer fun, hopefully more fun to come.

Uncle Dan and Poppy with their hands in their pockets.

Livingston Rodeo on the 4th of July, fun times. Aunt Ivy, Ivy Ann, Aunt Kim, Poppy, Mom and Dad, Uncle Dan was indisposed.

Uncle Dan, Aunt Ivy and Ivy Ann got Poppy a cowgirl hat, she kept calling everyone a cowboy, no matter the gender. If they had a hat on they were a cowboy.

Poppy wearing Great Grandpa Roy's hat.

Ivy Ann and Poppy playing in Grandma's car.

Hanging out with my cousin, Ivy Ann.

Ivy Ann and Poppy in our kayak before the big float. It was so windy we could only float for about an hour. It was fun while it lasted. Poppy yells boat anytime one is on a car and makes sure she mentions riding in the boat with Ivy on the Lagoon, everytime we drive by. Very fun to see her connect people and places and with a lot of enthusiasm.

Some bday pictures - our camera had a strange film on it so I will put more up soon.
Great Aunt Carlene and Uncle Jack in the back ground.

Poppy and Dad riding her new tricycle, Mt. style.

Poppy and Grandma "Mancy".

We took my dad to Billings to see his side of the family, Ivy Ann, me, Poppy and Grandpa.

Carter did the 2nd leg of his Canada to Mexico ride this summer. Poppy and I picked him up in West Yellowstone and drove through the Yellowstone park to get home. Poppy and I saw a bear, with 100 other people on the drive to West Yellowstone. We saw Elk, in the back ground, Bison, another bear and Carter and I saw a moose on our drive to Mt.

Catching Up

2009-06-10T21:03:00.001-07:00

Poppy and our neighbor Lydia sitting in the barbie jeep.

Poppy loves to run in the water and run out. She will yell, "Watch out Dad wave coming."

Hiding in the rocks at the beach.

Carter and Poppy are in a Parent Participation class once a week. They meet with other parents (ususally moms) and toddlers and play, have snack, sing songs, and talk about topics that parents of toddlers are interested in. They went to the barn at Cal Poly. The baby cows licked Poppy's hand.

Dad and Poppy sleeping.

Carter and Mark riding bikes

Blueberries and yogurt!

At Rincon beach with the Bancroft's and the Russell's.

April Bancroft

Julie, Caylyn and Poppy.

Caylyn and Poppy taking a bath. Poppy was afraid of the octopus.

Park - Carter and Poppy go to the park every Friday morning.

Another Park Day

Poppy and Dad at the park, she was wearing my hat.

Spring Break / Easter

2009-04-24T01:18:00.001-07:00

Poppy and Noodle standing by the big trees.

Cold and windy day on the N. California coast. The neat little town of Trinidad is behind Carter and Poppy. The town of Trinidad was another place we stopped on our honeymoon, great camp ground - Patrick's Point.

We planned a bike ride, however it was so cold we spent 5 minutes on the beach and got back in the car.

Camping on the Eel river.

Playing with sticks by the Eel river .

The redwoods was our Spring Break camping destination. We stopped at the Drive through tree. I have a video of the van attempting to drive through the tree. It looks like it would fit through the tree, however we aborted the mission early just in case.

We stopped at this tree on our honeymoon and 6 years ago with our friends Brian and Julie Russell.

Carter and Dave riding motorcyles - Kim let Carter ride her bike.

Easter Egg hunting in Santa Rosa. Poppy did not really understand why she was picking up the eggs. She filled her basket, opened the eggs and gave us the candy. What a girl.

Riding to the Easter Egg hunt.

Cat in the Hat and some other Dr. Suess character. Poppy calls the Cat in the Hat - "Ham", from the Green Eggs and Ham book.

Coloring Easter Eggs at Aunt Kim's house.

NCAA Hoops

2009-04-06T21:23:00.000-07:00

Poppy loves to play ball. She takes after her Grandpa, Mom, Dad, Uncle Dan and Cousin Ivy. Everything is "play ball" - at the top of her voice.

She can kick a ball, throw a ball, and hit a ball with a wooden spoon. She would love it if Noodle would play ball with as much enthusiasm as she plays ball. Noodle is good for three to four fetches with a lot of coaxing to return the ball for another throw.

Grandpa and Poppy play ball - Poppy escorts Grandpa into the bedroom to play ball when he visits as well as shooting hoops.

Poppy recognizes hoops around the neighborhood, on T.V. (as we watch March Madness - men and women night after night), and at Momma's school. I have Poppy rooting for my team - she knows Duke is the team to beat - well almost. We are Carolina fans - when Duke looses in the tourney.

Poppy needs to keep the tradition alive - Grandpa and Mom played on a State Championship basketball teams and we both played College basketball. Poppy will get to choose for herself; sports or no sports. The interest she shows now is fun to share her joy with the round ball.

Shooting hoops with Grandpa.

Grandpa keeping Poppy safe.

Aunt Kim

2009-03-30T21:33:00.000-07:00

Poppy loves her Aunt Kim. We skype a few times a week and anytime we get near the computer she yells "Aunt Kim".

We got to see Aunt Kim and Cousin Andrea March 20th for a few minutes/hours. I had a P.E. conference near Andrea's college so we lucked out with family time.

The ride to Santa Clara.

Aunt Kim got Poppy some color crayons, so they colored and jumped on the bed at the hotel room.

Poppy enjoyed watching cousin Annya aka Andrea and smiling at her and her friends.

Santa Cruz, Ca.

Check out Poppy singing Twinkle Twinkle on Youtube at the right.

Matt and Colleen

2009-03-12T22:27:00.000-07:00

Our friends Matt and Colleen came to the Central Coast for a visit. We met them six years ago on the mountain where our cabin is/was. They still live on the mountain. We went to visit them last weekend, snow on the ground and 22 degrees last Saturday morning. Poppy loved Colleen. Every time she saw Colleen she would yell, Colleen. It is neat to see how much she remembers and the impression people are already making in her young life.

Poppy got to meet them about a month ago. We spent and evening walking the dogs on the beach. Colleen took some pictures of us and Poppy.

Pictures of Matt and no pictures Colleen, but pictures of all of Colleen's hard work.
Matt was the M.C. for the Health Conference.

Matt getting ready for an acupunture demo.

Pete, their son, on the iphone!

Colleen's coffee bar.

Breakfast and

Lunch was provide

The snow!

Our old Cabin with a new deck on the front.

Poppy at the beach in January or so...

Flowers - Weeds = Perspective

2009-02-28T20:53:00.000-08:00

It has been about a month since I posted any pictures of Poppy.

She has had a visit from her Aunt Kim, Uncle Dave and Cousin Andrea.
She spends Monday and Wednesday mornings with Papa, Carter has a guitar class, 1 credit to finish his degree.
She has also enjoyed going the Middle School basketball games.

Here are pictures of our day at Carpafora beach, @ 40 miles North of Los Osos.
The yellow flowers were everywhere and smelled sweet, however I believe them to be a pesky weed. When we lived in Santa Barbara this was prolific and a weed. So growing in the wild are they considered a wild flower or are they still a weed?

They are pretty
They are flowers
The do smell good,
They are weeds. Our neighbor girls said it is called saw grass and is edible. (maybe my weed is really good)

We went to the Amgen Tour of California bicycle race, more pictures later.

The Park

2009-02-07T20:19:00.000-08:00

It has been a long time. We drove up the coast on a beautiful cloudy day. Papa, Poppy and Noodle.

Poppy and Dad on the slide.

Poppy really liked this little car. She figured out how to make it rock back and forth.

They had fun swinging also.

Carter made up an anti Superbowl shirt. He had fun wearing it. We watched the second half of the game. It was good!

2009-01-20T21:19:00.000-08:00

We were playing in the back yard. Poppy got a giraffe backpack and leash. She likes to wear the giraffe and hold the leash.

We played outside in the water and sand.

We went to Hearst Castle beach on MLK day. Great day for picture taking, however our camera ran out of batteries. Novice!

Peekaboo - Beach - New Years Hike

2009-01-17T21:14:00.000-08:00

Carter was looking for Poppy in the back yard. She was hiding behind the bamboo.

We have had great weather, 75-80 degrees and not much wind. We went to the beach this morning. Carter and I played volleyball for awhile. Poppy played with her toys, ate sand, had snacks and splashed in the water. We went back to the beach at sunset for a bon-fire at the Cayucos pier. It was a warm evening and we enjoyed the fire with some friends. It was a fun day.

Poppy found the food bag.

Poppy got in the water and fell a couple times. She was surprised when she fell down in the water, possibly because the water is freezing cold. However she did not want to stop splashing and playing in the shallow water.
We let her run around without any clothes on, she came up behind me and was giving me hugs.

We went for a hike up Bishop peak in SLO New Years weekend. Carter carried Poppy. Noodle and I followed them up the trail.

Bubbles

2009-01-07T20:37:00.001-08:00

Potty- maybe one time only!

2009-01-02T19:17:00.000-08:00

The conversation about potty training really started in N.C., with Uncle Marion. He said he was potty trained at one. He has a twin sister and a sister that is @ a year older. So his mom must have been done with diapers.

So......

Carter and I have been talking about when to start potty training, what discipline looks like at this age, when to get rid of the pacifier.... I talked to Holly Rodgers and she said they put their daughter, Lily, on the potty seat before her bath each night at @ 18 months. So we went shopping today and bought a potty seat just to try it out.

When we got it home we put it in the living room. We talked potty and let her play with the seat for awhile. She would get close and back onto it. I took off her diaper and let her try it, no pee.

We tried again before her bath. She went pee. She wanted to go on it after her bath and pee'd again. We think it was a fluke, very crazy!

We did not take a picture of the pee, sorry for those who wanted to see the evidence.

Happy New Year

2009-01-01T20:50:00.001-08:00

We did the Polar Bear Plunge in Cayucos on New Years Day. The water temperature was 54 degrees, air around 68 degrees with a mild wind.

It was the second annual for the Atkinson family. Last year Poppy did not get in the water, this year she dipped her toes, next year maybe her belly will get wet.

Carter was the first in, he lingered and submerged twice so I had to follow with the same or more. I did the same, not more - it was really cold.

Very fun atmosphere, everyone waiting around to freeze!

I was cold before we got in the water.

Poppy found a family that had lots of toys. So she played with the toys, hung out on their blanket and the mom played with Poppy as well. The little girl - Grace - is two and she had a hard time sharing with Poppy. Her mom would come over and make the little girl give Poppy the toy, and say "here you go - you can play with my toys." Carter drug Grace and Poppy around on the towel, they had a fun time.

It's Christmas

2008-12-23T10:00:00.000-08:00

Christmas morning we all were gathered around to open presents. Poppy was overwhelmed with all the excitement. She would look at her present, toss it aside and play with the box.

Poppy checks out Uncle Marion and Grandma Vina's gifts.

Poppy and Grandpa F.C.

Grandma Evelyn

Poppy taking her new puppy for a walk.

It was so warm out, we played a round of Croquet. Poppy had fun taking peoples balls and moving them around the course.

Poppy and Aunt Roxy playing outside.

Poppy loves to slide, she can spot one from far far away. It has only been cold enough to wear a heavy jacket and a hat one day, so far. We wanted snow, snow, snow!

Poppy is working on her smiling when we take her picture.

Grandma Evelyn put some jewelry on Poppy and some make-up.

We flew to N.C. on December 19th. Poppy did great! We left Santa Barbara @9:30 am, stopped in L.A. for 2 hours, on to Cincinnati for 40 minutes and landed in Charlotte at 9:30 eastern time. She ran around in L.A. and slept for 2 1/2 hours on the flight. What a blessing. I was unsure if we could entertain her for 4 hours.

Poppy got her first Christmas present of 2008 from the Bancroft family. The hat is really cute. I am sure it will be in more pictures. :>

Poppy and Grandma Evelyn. They were watching the birds out the window.

Poppy and Aunt Roxy. Poppy has been enjoying the attention from family and all the hugs and kisses.

Poppy, Uncle Marion and Peanut. Poppy is not sure about her Uncle. :>

Poppy liked to sit in Uncle Marion's rocking chair.

Bath time

2008-12-17T20:00:00.000-08:00

I have neglected to add pictures as of late.

I am adding a video taken a week ago as Poppy was getting ready for her bath and a couple pictures of Poppy's new wagon.

Poppy loves to take a bath.

Carter traded our next door neighbor girl, who is 8, an electric piano for a wagon. He found the piano on the side of the road for free and she found the wagon on the side of the road for free. He re-did the wagon and it turned to be fit for a little queen. The wagon was a metal and full of rust. He took it apart, created a pink wooden wagon with sparkles.

We went to a retirement home and sang some Christmas songs with our home group. We out numbered the residents, all six residents liked the music and most of all loved seeing the kids.

Poppy playing on the playground at church.

We went for a walk near Cambria. Poppy is always excited to be down and walking/running everywhere.

Poppy giving Dad her flower.

Poppy has really been into Noodle lately. Any food she gets she will walk over and put it into Noodle's bowl to share. She will throw the ball for Noodle and watch to see if Noodle is feeling up to a game of fetch. Noodle is full of energy after she eats and will get the ball 3 times max. Poppy would be in heaven, if her doggy would retrieve the ball. Noodle is a labrador retriever, however we think her gene pool is so watered down that she in just a lab.

Thanksgiving

2008-11-30T19:24:00.001-08:00

We went to Santa Rosa, Ca. to spend Thanksgiving with Aunt Kim, Uncle Dave, Papa, and Cousins Blaine and Andrea. It is so wonderful to be with family, there really is nothing like it. Poppy enjoyed running around Kim and Dave's house. She chased Bongo, their dog, watched the fish, talked to the bird and was intrigued by the three snakes.

Poppy was not sure what to think of Blaine and Andrea wrestling.

Aunt Kim gave Poppy a bath and got her ready for bed.

Cousin Andrea let Poppy sit on the counter and eat crackers.

Andrea was sharing her music with Poppy. Poppy had one side of the ear buds and would put it in her ear and sway with the music.

I am so thankful for my Aunts and Uncles. Carter and I have a bad habit of calling minutes to hours from our destination to let people know we are coming for a visit. We did this to my Aunt Dot and Uncle Larry on the Sat. after Thanksgiving. I am so glad they were home. They got to meet Poppy and she got to have her first tea party with Aunt Dot. We love you guys!!

Aunt Dot had all sorts of fun toys, Poppy liked the tea set spoon the best. She carried it around, ate some dirt with it, dug with it and ate some cooked carrots with it.

Uncle Lar making sure Poppy is safe. :>

The wolf and other things

2008-11-20T19:55:00.000-08:00

Poppy makes the cutest wolf sound.

Poppy is greased up for our potential sail across the bay for a picnic. Our neighbor girls found the red head band and put it on Poppy and she wore it proudly.

What a cutie!

Dad getting the boat ready.

Poppy found the picnic early. We ended up not sailing due to a rare occurance, no wind. We sat by the bay and had our picnic and enjoyed the beautiful day.

Different day same great weather. We were at the beach at 9:00am enjoying the sun, sand and surf.

Yeah the beach!

Poppy still eats sand.

She can drink out of a cup. She also likes to pour out her drink so we must be on our toes when she has a cup without a lid.

A girl and her dog.

I found my dad.

Poppy and dad on an adventure, they hiked Bishop peak in SLO>

Noodle is enjoying the rest. She does not get out much, poor dog.

Yosemite

2008-11-10T21:00:00.001-08:00

We had a four day weekend and decided to go to Yosemite N.P.. It was a five hour drive and all was well until the last hour both ways. Poppy had had enough, we felt the same way, we just did not cry and scream about it.

We stopped to play in the leaves.

The hike to Mirror Lake. We rode our bikes to the trail head (we thought), looked over the map and started hiking. We were looking for a lake, we had fellow hikers walking going up and down the trail, so we just kept walking. 1.5 miles into our hike, we saw a sign that said Mirror Lake 1.5 miles behind us. The trail head, where we left our bikes, was the lake. The water level was down so it looks more like a stream. Poppy was a sleep in the trailer so we just wheeled it on the trail. We carried her up the boulder strewn hills, down the washed out asphalt and over a log. She woke up when we were with in sight of the lake, on our return. So she got a good nap, we had a nice walk to no where.
Carter and Poppy riding bikes.

On the trail.

This is Mirror Lake, below a granite slab.

Poppy enjoyed her walk by the lake.

Carter and Poppy with Yosemite falls almost in the back ground.

Playing hide and seek on the way to the waterfall.

At the foot of Yosemite falls.

We found a life size or so bear for Poppy. Every time she saw a bear she would say - roar - The gift shop was fun. She tried to crawl under this big bear until Carter picked her up and put her on top of him. She was hugging it and kissing it.

Half dome in the back ground.

This was a great trip. We missed the snow and rain, we had a heated tent cabin, Poppy learned two new words (waterfall, half-dome) and we met up with some friends from SLO - Trevor and Suz.

Poppy eating cheese and showing off her new bear, "roar"

Trick or Treat

2008-11-02T19:33:00.000-08:00

Poppy got dressed up and went to the neighbors and the church that had a harvest celebration. She was really cute.

Katie, Poppy and Allie

Poppy in the bounce house.

Who me?

The wolf ate the chicken.

I don't want to go home!

We got a visit from my Aunt Carlene and Jack Moors from Oregon. They are snow birds and are on their way to Arizona. Poppy had a wonderful time reading and playing with her relatives.

Poppy brushing her teeth, cutie pie!!!!

Pumpkin Patch

2008-10-29T06:59:00.000-07:00

We went to the Avila Valley Barn and saw animals, fed goats, felt pumkins, and tried to eat the pumpkins.

We had lunch at the park while Carter surfed.

Aunt Kim and Cousin Andrea came down for the weekend. We went for a picnic, it was really cold.

Carter bought Poppy a climbing harness, lucky girl!!!

Poppy's costume, provided by Lily Rodgers! Thanks

LIFE IN LOS OSOS

2008-10-16T19:25:00.000-07:00

Cousin Andrea came for a visit. Poppy loved watching everything Andrea did, she can say Andrea. Kind-of! Aunt Kim and Andrea are coming this weekend. Family is so fun!

Reading with Ann

We were talking to Kim on the computer, very cool stuff. It seems really sci-fi.

We have had great weather the past few days/weeks.
Poppy loves to play out back with her tunnels.

She got a fun water sprinkler DUCK from Aunt Roxy, Uncle Marion and Grandma Evelyn. Poppy likes to carry the duck around and hug it. There are more videos on youtube.com link on the right.

Poppy also played in her sand box today.

Poppy and the girls get in the sand box.

Poppy has a wetsuit and likes to get in the water. We went to the beach last night and tonight. She is on the go the whole time we are at the beach, in the water, out of the water, eating sand, following Noodle around....

Poppy can now climb up into Papa's chair.

Camping -rain and shine

2008-10-08T19:54:00.000-07:00

We went camping at Refugio this past weekend. The Rodgers booked the camp ground in April for this October. It does not rain in Ca. until January, however it rained the weekend we went camping. The Rodgers, Browns, Sus and Trevor and us, makes 8 adults and 6 kids.
Sus, Holly, Jess and Eli waiting out the rain under the easy-up.

Jess and Eli - rain rain go away.

The kids did not notice the rain, they were happy to be outside and playing in the dirt.

Carter on his wind surfer stand up paddle board, cost $15.00 vs. the cost of a paddle board - $800.00 over $1000.00. (good buy)

Poppy did a good job napping, not so well sleeping at night. She got up and slept with us both nights.

Dads and daughters.

Oliver and Poppy were having fun playing in and out of the tent. Poppy got her first kiss.

Poppy kissing the camera.

Reading books by the fire. Oliver, Poppy and Lilly waited patiently for breakfast and enjoyed looking at books.

Carter brought his slack line for all to try.

Zhaia doing her own slack line.

Brandon, Poppy, Carter and Zeke, watching Oliver swing.

Poppy visits the Santa Barbara Zoo

2008-09-24T21:28:00.000-07:00

We went to Santa Barbara to go to a baby shower and visit our friends.
Poppy and I woke up early 6:30. We woke Kadin, Jordan and Seth up, so we decided to walk to the coffee place and get a bagel. I got a few compliments on how busy I must be with four kids.

We went to the zoo on Saturday. The kids really enjoyed looking at the animals and playing at the play ground.

Poppy and pink flamingos

Poppy saw the giraffe and the giraffe saw her.

April, Kadin and Seth at the giraffes.

All four kids were looking for the gibbons, maybe only three.

Poppy and Jordon walking at the zoo.

Poppy has gotten really good at holding hands when she walks out in public.

We saw the penguins from under the water. All the kids enjoyed watching the penguins from under water, the glass was thick with Poppy spit. Kadin liked it most when they pooped.

April is great. She pushed the stroller for 2 hours, kids in and out all around the zoo.

Poppy got a new tunnel to play in. She is really cute, of course!!! She likes to crawl through the two tunnels and give us her look.

New Friends

2008-09-12T21:14:00.000-07:00

We have new neighbors, Allie 8 years old and Katie 10 years old. Allie loves Noodle and has made a friend for life - she has Noodle doing tricks for food all the time.
Allie is a very friendly little girl. She will get in Poppy's bus and sing "The Wheels on the Bus" to Poppy, read her a book, dance around and get Poppy to dance with her, let Noodle kiss her on the face... We went for a walk this after noon, Poppy, Noodle, Katie and Allie, the girls took turns walking Noodle. It has been fun watching Poppy watch them and then trying to interact with them.

13 months

2008-09-02T20:35:00.000-07:00

Poppy has been out and about, however we have not taken the camera with us. We have had wonderful weather the last few days, the beach is the only place to be. Today Poppy went straight for the water and soaked her dress, so she had her first nude beach experience. She stopped walking to the water twice to pee.

The sunset in Morro Bay. What a great evening!

The Rodgers at the beach.

Poppy got a bus! She loves to go in the bus and look out the windows.

She will go in and stand at the back window and yell out and giggle.

Poppy also got a fish tank, she has four fish.

Poppy and dad with diaper hats.

Carter cleaned up the back yard and made a cute little patio for Poppy. We leave the back door open, so Poppy can go in and out on her own. She likes to take her toys right to the fence and drop them on the other side.

Last Trip of the Summer

2008-08-15T15:59:00.001-07:00

How sad, the summer is over!!! What a great one summer we had. Two weeks with family in N.C. and Virginia. Four weeks in Montana with family and Carter's 10 day bike ride. We came back home to friends and one last trip.

Our last trip started in Temecula with our friends Marc, Christie, Carlie and Bailie Horton.

Marc and Carter were going to go for a ride at Hurkey Creek. However, Marc had two flat tires, so we hung out at the park and the girls ran through the sprinkler.

The girls napped in the car before we got to Hurkey Creek.

Fixing the second flat.

Optimistic about the ride.

Bailie (4) and Carlie (7)

Christie and Buster

Carter and Poppy

Bailie getting ready to jump.

Marc and Carlie

The hot tub me, Poppy, Christie and Marc. It was really not to hot in So. Ca..

I also got to visit my friend Lorraine/ We worked at Harmony Elementary school in Hemet. I have not seen her in 3 years, it was so nice to catch up. God is so gracious and incredibly loving.

Lorraine and Poppy

Jenny and Jon

Jenny and Jon were great. They played with Poppy inside and out. Inside: piano, stairs, dogs, fish, keys, front window, and a drum. Outside: Bubbles, balls and a lot of following her around as she explored their yard.

Friends are wonderful, thank God!!!

Ventura was our second stop. We visited Brian, Julie, Caleb and Caylyn Russell.
Caylyn - a happy baby.

Caleb - a silly fellow.

Poppy stealing food from Caylyn.

Caylyn on her way to get her food back.

Caylyn and Poppy-teething or just enjoying their fingers?

Who is over there?

Breakfast with the Bible Study Group

2008-08-15T15:17:00.000-07:00

We had a Bible study breakfast. It was fun to get together with most of our group.

Poppy, Ava, and Everett playing, with Tina keeping everyone safe.

Oliver, Lily and Holly Rodgers. Holly and Luke Buchannan.

The guys took over the kitchen, Mark was the pancake chef. Eric, Randy and Aaron drinking some coffee.

Aiden, Silas and Ryan enjoying each others company and Ryan's fun toys.

Casey and Ava. Ava is two months younger than Poppy, she has great hair.

Randy and his son Everett. Robin looks to be interpreting.

Eric, Holly, Jim, Ava, Ellie and Carter.

Outside was good fun. Aiden, Holly, Jim, Silas and Everett enjoying the toys. The water guns did not last to long. :>

Swimming

2008-08-06T22:09:00.000-07:00

We are doing Mommy(Daddy) and Me swim classes with Poppy. We are having fun taking her in the water. She is learning to kick her legs on her tummy, float on her back(while we hold her), working on blowing bubbles (blow out instead of sucking in water) and we will go under water tomorrow.

Poppy and Dad

This is our class. Our friends Jess and Zeke, Holly and Oliver and Brandon and Lily were in the class also.

Dad and Poppy

Poppy was working on getting in the pool from the side.

Poppy was being passed back and for from the teacher to dad.

2008-08-01T21:59:00.000-07:00

Check out the video of Poppy going down the slide (Poppy's videos)
Check out Poppy running as well (Poppy's videos)

Poppy went swimming for the first time.
We went to a friends pool with Sherry and Grant Canaday.
I wish I had pictures or video of this event. Poppy would stick her face in the water, would have walked right into the pool if I was not holding onto her and would walk by herself in the water.

We are starting swim classes next week. I am not sure what she will do, but being in the water will be important.

Poppy and Grant ready to go. Grant is almost 2

We are ready!

A day at the pool with Luke Buchanan, in the background.

More pictures from Montana

2008-08-01T20:39:00.000-07:00

There is a longer and better video of Poppy eating cake on the Poppy videos link to the right, check it out.

It was sad to leave Montana the wonderful weather, my mom and summer vacation.

Poppy learned to point or to show that she is "1"?

Grandma and Aunt Ivy the day they left for Atlanta, Georgia.

The Gaustad's on their way home.

Poppy was riding in the laundry basket as Aunt Ivy and then Cousin Ivy helped out with the pushing and flying.

Poppy was ready for more, "hey what happened to all the fun."

Poppy and Grandma would look for the cat in the alley every day. The cat was never to be seen, however Poppy went to the window every time hoping to get a glimpse of the orange kitty.

Carter took us out to dinner for my dad's bday.

Poppy ate corn for the first time in Montana. She loved holding the corn and would open her mouth as wide as she could to get all the corn possible.

We went to story time at the Livingston library. It was for ages 1-3 years old. Poppy would walked around and look at people. She tried to make eye contact and saying hi, which is "eeee"

We went to visit my mom and dad's old friends, Ted and Virginia Carter. My dad played college basketball with Big Ted 6'7". Ted is the nicest guy ever.

My dad's sister came to visit Poppy. Great Aunt Barbara and Great Uncle Ernie from Billings, Mt.

We got to visit with Cousin Blaine and his wife Andrea and their three kids, Keaton, Hannah and Logan.

The last picture of the night. How do you know what you look like in the dark?
Me and Andrea Edwards

The kids had a fun time playing keep away and running around with Noodle.

Blaine and Keaton

Blaine, Keaton and Ivy

Grandma, Ivy, Andrea, Noodle, Hannah and Logan

Poppy played in the sprinkler. She liked sticking her finger in the hole and the water would shoot her in the face. It was really cold so it took her breath away every time she stood next to it.

She is "1"

2008-07-29T22:42:00.000-07:00

The best video yet is of Poppy eating her cake, check out Poppy videos link.

This is a short video of Poppy eating her cake! Very Very CUTE!

Poopster's birthday party was held on July 5th, she is actually "ONE, 1" today.

Hmm, I have not seen anything like that before!

Grandma shared with Poppy what the white thing coming at her was for and that she was really going to like it.

Poppy started out slowly with just fingers.

She really got going and went face first over and over and over again.

She came up for air and had to breath through her mouth because her nose was full of frosting.

Noodle is waiting for something to drop.

We are a very happy and blessed family!

Our cousin Lance, his wife Lisa andIvy.

Grandma, Ivy and Poppy.

Visit to Montana, an early Bday celebration

2008-07-21T08:41:00.000-07:00

T
Poppy's first parade. Livingston, Montana is the place to be the 2nd through the 4th of July. We went to the parade on the 2nd. Our big plans were to go to the rodeo on the 4th, however it was sold out. We watched Ivy light fire works on the sidewalk on the 4th.

Poppy and Cousin Ivy playing in the pool.

Poppy giving Ivy a kiss.

Poppy and Ivy playing in the hose.

Aunt Ivy kept Poppy on the go, chasing the ball, climbing stairs and playing with Noodle

North Carolina/Virginia

2008-06-17T18:54:00.000-07:00

North Carolina:
We went to the white water training center in N.C., with Roxie and Marion. They were great tour guides.

We went to Lake Lure and did some swimming and picnicking.

We tried to lure the ducks in close, to get some good pictures.

Uncle Marion reading Poppy a book.

Virginia:

We were lucky enough to see all of Carter's Aunts and Uncles. They meet weekly at Arby's, what a great family. Carter's Aunts and Uncles - ages range from 75-95.

This is Poppy's Great-Uncle Bert, 90 years old.

From left to right Great-Uncle Bert, Great Aunt Dot, Carter is hugging Great Aunt Sister Dot, Next is Great Aunt Frankie.

Poppy is sitting with Grandpa and talking to Great-Aunt Frankie.

Great Uncle Robby is drinking, he is 95 with his girlfriend Kris and Grandpa F.C.

Poppy made a special visit to Great Aunt Helen's house, she could not wait to meet Helen.

Oak Island:

Our last evening at the beach. Carter's Family: Vina, F.C., Marion, Roxie, Evelyn, Susan, Poppy and Carter-Oak Island Summer 2008.

We rode in the convertibles to get some ice cream. We could not motivate anyone to sing karaoke, so we just watched people and enjoyed the ice cream.

Poppy got her first purse. She chose the purple sparkles over the pink one with a stuffed animal. She carried her purse all around the living room while she practiced walking.

Aunt Roxie feeding Poppy her favorite food, apple sauce.

Dad driving Poppy around Roxie and Marion's living room.

Poppy and Grandma Evelyn

Poppy, Grandma and Aunt Roxie

She is walking! Poppy is taking a few steps at a time. Watch the video!

We are in North Carolina at Oak Island. Aunt Roxy and Uncle Marion invited the family to spend a week at the beach with them. Poppy has had a lot of lovin'. Two Grandma's, One Grandpa, throw in an Aunt and Uncle and she is kissed, hugged, held and played with at all times. Poppy is a lucky girl!!!!

Waiting for Poppy's first plane ride.

Meeting Aunt Roxy and Grandma Evelyn at the airport in N.C.

Poppy with Uncle Marion and Peanut. Poppy loves Peanut, he is just her size.

Poppy loving her Grandma.

Grandpa feeding Poppy her dinner.

Grandma Vina taking Poppy for a walk.

Grandma and Auntie playing with Poppy. Poppy is ready for the beach.

Poppy's first real experience with the ocean. The Atlantic is in the lower 80's. The Pacific is in the high 50's.

We think Poppy looks like Yoda. Her little cover up is sunscreen, so I did not want to take it off. She stood and looked out at the ocean for awhile.

She found a shell and ate the sand off of it. She was fine standing until the water came up to her feet and she got off balance.

Grandma Vina spending quality time with Poppy.

The family out for a walk.

We took a bike ride, Poppy was in the ergo.

She was done after about 15 minutes.

Evelyn and Roxy enjoying the cool of the evening. Cool here is 80 degrees with a breeze. The humidity is something to get used to for sure. If the wind did not blow it would be super hard to go outside.

Carter is 45 Wow!!

2008-06-10T20:47:00.000-07:00

Carter turned 45 on 06-07-08. He played dodgeball and other fun games at the gym with friends. We took Poppy to the gym and she scooted around in her walker. She went across the gym and would end up at the wall. It was her first time in such an open space, so fast - forward was all she knew. Very cute.

Carter 45, Susan 40 Poppy 10 months. What will 5 years bring????

10 months

2008-05-30T19:42:00.000-07:00

Poppy is such a good little girl, I love her like I can't believe. I may have mentioned this before, however I will say it again. To all who told us how wonderful parenting was, I never believed you until now. I ooze with love for Poppy, I can't hug, kiss, hold, ... her enough each day. Thank You God for blessing us with a child!!!!

My dad and I went to N. California to see my sister and her family. Carter went East and did his 5th annual cycling, canyoneering, climbing trip to Utah with the guys.

She is hiding her face to play a version of peek-a-boo. Of course very cute!!!

Poppy is smiling more, she giggles a little and loves to show everyone her teeth.

Picture of me, Poppy, Papa, Blaine, Andrea and Tank

The cousins, only an 18 year gap.

We went to the mall, Poppy made her first visit to the Disney store.

Poppy with Andrea and Julia at the mall.

Hanging out at Aunt Kim and Uncle Dave's house.

Poppy bumped her chin on the deck and her lip bled, first boo boo.

She got stuck under the bird cage.

My nephew Blaine got a Weiner puppy, his name is Tank.

Blaine also got a motorcycle.

Our neighbor Gina came over to visit Poppy. Poppy untied her shoes a couple times. She liked staring at Gina and showing her all her toys

Dad and I went to the park and had a picnic. He chased Poppy around trying to keep all the grass and leaves out of her mouth.

In the swing for the first time.

2008-05-20T20:12:00.000-07:00

Poppy has been playing in bed so I thought I would get some pictures. She plays with her stuffed animals, she likes to stand up and likes to sing every now and then.

Backyard Pool

2008-05-16T22:27:00.001-07:00

We had a couple really hot days, for Los Osos, 75-80 degrees. The Middle School kids complain when it is hot outside, "why do you make us run", "can we go in the gym, it is to hot." It is funny because it is so relative, 110 in Hemet vs. 75 in Los Osos. I don't believe the Elementary kids in Hemet ever mentioned the heat or smog.

So Carter put a bucket in the backyard and they had a picnic and pool party. There is one questionable picture that I will add. What do you think?

She found the kitchen

2008-05-12T20:37:00.000-07:00

A week ago Poppy started crawling from the living room to the kitchen and would get stuck on the slippery floor. This week is very different, if she is in the living room and hears one of us down the hall, she will come and find us in the bedroom.

I opened the cupboard so she could play with the pots and pans. She also found the drawer with the dish towels.

Poppy playing the piano.

Patty Cake

Berries

2008-05-08T19:57:00.000-07:00

Poppy is 9 months old and we are slacking on the pictures. It is true, we have only taken a few pictures in the last two weeks.
Poppy is crawling all over the house, she found the kitchen drawers today and she loves to stand up holding onto anything within reach.

Beach weather and video of Poppy crawling

2008-04-28T19:31:00.001-07:00

We went to the beach - oh what wonderful weather and friend!! We met the Canadays, Rodgers, 3/5 Amesses, 2/3 Soderins, Browns, Sannys, 3/4 Buchanans and 1/3 of the Davidsons at the drive down beach near Cayucos.

This is Poppy's new look. She gets a cute smirk on her face and then smiles. OMG is it cute!!!!!

There were lady bugs all over the beach.

Poppy got new sunglasses and actually wore them for a long time.

Carter dug a hole and stood Poppy in it. She loves to stand up on things and walk around while someone holds her hands.

Sand - how do you keep it out of their mouths, eyes, ...? Oliver and Silas enjoying the sand.

The kids played in the mote and the tent. The Amesse's brought the tent. We could have stayed all day!

The beach scene . A short game of vball was played, thanks to Sherri and Corky for bringing the net and the ball. The kids needed attention - so game over. Next time... bring Grandparents or Aunt and Uncle!!!

40 years old

2008-04-21T19:47:00.000-07:00

I turned 40 on the 18th! I can't believe it. I am not sure what 40 is supposed to feel like, but this is one birthday that I don't feel any older than I did 10 years ago.

We had friends visit from Ventura for the weekend, Brian, Julie, Caleb and Caylyn Russell. Caleb, who is 3, wished me Happy Birthday Saturday morning while he was eating breakfast. We talked a little and he said "Miss Susan, you look like a Grandma." I didn't feel 40, but I must look a lot older in his 3 year old eyes. Who knew???

Caleb Russell

Caylyn and Poppy are two months apart. They sat on the rug and looked at each other. Caylyn is very smiley and Poppy kept her serious "Blue Steel" look pretty much the whole weekend.

We went up to look at the seals and stopped in Cambria to walk around. It was sunny, windy and very cold. Carter held Caleb up to a bubble machine.

New Suit

2008-04-15T20:49:00.000-07:00

Poppy and her dad had a hat day this week. Last week it was so warm they had a shirts off day and played outside. We will see what other theme days they will be having - stay tuned.

Poppy got a new swim suit. It is for when she is 18 months. She really wanted to try it on, so we just had to take pictures.

Beach Days

2008-04-12T14:53:00.000-07:00

The weather has been incredible. 70-75 , no wind and yes we have been to the beach the past three days. WOW, wish you were here!!!

Poppy loves the beach. The first day at the beach she played in the sand and did not eat any sand. She rode in the stroller and walked holding our hands the second day. Today we stayed at the beach for 2 1/2 hours. She ate sand, played in a tub of water, played with sand toys and watched other kids play. She is a trooper!!!

Camping

2008-04-07T19:56:00.001-07:00

We went camping at Big Sur with the Rodgers family. Poppy got to eat black beans and rocks. She loved sitting by the fire and watching Lily. She also enjoyed riding in the swing.
It was an adventure, as Poppy woke up screaming at 9:00pm and would not go back to sleep until we went to bed at 10:30. She is getting four teeth, so we think that is the reason for the disturbed sleep??? The weather was beautiful and turned out to be a fun overnight trip.

Video's

2008-04-02T21:43:00.000-07:00

More pictures

2008-03-30T20:21:00.001-07:00

We finally go a picture of the three of us, Grandma, Poppy and me. Poppy loved visiting with Grandma, she got to nap in and jump on Grandma's bed. Poppy's nick name from Grandma and Papa is "Sweet Pea". She loves to smile, play on the floor and is getting up on her hands and knees and rock back and forth. We drove for two days out and two days back from Mt. Poppy did great. She played, talked to Noodle,ate cereal and slept. She only lost it once, right before we stopped for the night. She was full of energy and was screaming at the top of her lungs with excitement to be out of the car.

Pictures at Chico Hot Springs. It was snowing and the water was 95 degrees.

Spring Break - Montana

2008-03-22T19:47:00.000-07:00

Poppy loves to eat. She has peas and applesauce on her face. Grandma was playing with Poppy and put her socks on her hands. She just stuck them in her mouth and started sucking on them.

We are in Montana for spring break visiting Grandma Sassy. We went through snow and icy roads. Poppy did great in the car, we stopped every few hours to shop, eat and get gas. She has been enjoying playing with Grandma.

My mom had my rocking chair redone

Carter was getting a book ready to ship and Poppy and Noodle were helping him.

Hiking with Poppy and Dad.

Noodle's best friend

2008-03-08T20:36:00.001-08:00

We took Poppy to the eye doctor to check her vision. She did great and got a free pair of sunglasses. YEAH

Noodle has found a new friend. Poppy is eating at the table more and Noodle is the perfect height to see the food on Poppy's tray.

Poppy loved her sweet potatoes, she would bite onto the spoon and not let go.

Carter made her a new hat. She likes to chew on paper so he made her a hat out of paper.

She has been voicing her opinion lately. If she has had enough of the saucer she will wave her arms up and down and start to cry.

See Poppy videos on youtube.

More 7 months

2008-03-02T19:24:00.001-08:00

We took Poppy on a bike ride in the country, we ended with sitting in the grass watching Noodle sniff around. The grassy park had some poppy's so we took advantage of the photo op. She does not look to happy to be by the flowers. :> The close up looks like she is sleeping in the flowers.

Noodle has made a friend with our neighbors new dog, Daisy. They love to play chase, tug of war and bite each other in the face and neck.

7 months

2008-02-28T08:33:00.001-08:00

Poppy is now 7 months old, where did the time go? We are having so much fun watching her grow and develop. She slept from 6:30 to 6:30 last night. (2/28/08) I made Carter get up at 6:00 am to check on her and then I went in to check on her again and again and again. She is sitting up and leaning for toys by her feet. When she leans to the side she ends up on her tummy.

First meal at the table

2008-02-23T20:44:00.000-08:00

Papa came over for dinner and brought Poppy some presents. The first present was a new invention for feeding babies. It is this mesh basket with a handle. I put some carrots in it and Poppy went to town. She loved sucking the carrot juice and carrots out of through the mesh. 2nd present was pacifiers, we keep losing them, so Papa keeps buying them. 3rd present was some fishes she can chew on, they are supposed to be good for teething.

We went for a walk through the Elfin Forrest, in L.O. with Brandon, Holly, Lily and Ozzie. It was a cold day, but what a view.

Smiles and Raspberries

2008-02-18T13:27:00.000-08:00

Early Monday, Feb. 18 we found out that my mom went into the hospital and it was almost fatal. She is doing better each day, please pray for her health. Poppy has a raspberry just for Grandma.

Aunt Kim and Uncle Dave came down from Santa Rosa to visit Poppy for the weekend. Poppy had a great time with her family, she was all smiles and she loved being the center of attention.

Friends

2008-02-11T21:24:00.001-08:00

We went to Santa Barbara, crashed a Pirate Party and enjoyed wonderful weather. 80 degree weather is just about the perfect temperature. The grass is green and flowering plants ever where you look.

Caleb Russell just turned 3. He was jumping off the structure. Poppy smiled at him and he said I think she likes me.

Favorite Trick - Raspberry

2008-01-21T14:18:00.000-08:00

Carter realized this morning that the three girls in his life are wonderful. What would he do without us?

More of the same - Poppy

2008-01-15T21:22:00.001-08:00

Poppy got a crib. It seems huge.

Poppy has many hand made blankies thanks to her Great Aunts and Great Grandmas. The most recent blankie that has been added to her collection is a quilt from Great Grandma Ruby.

We went hiking at Pinnacles National Monument. It was cold in the morning, we had Poppy bundled up. Our friends, the Rodgers, have been very generous with hand me downs. Poppy has on a really snuggly fleece, mittens, a fluffy hat from Papa and her hood. She did really well. We hiked, had a snack, went into a cave, saw a resevoir, and rock climbers .

Poppy's top teeth are coming in, I tried to get a picture of the one just poking through her gum.

Being a parent is so wonderful. We love Poppy so much, obvious to me now as a parent. If I would have read this before we had Poppy I would not know the depths of this type of love, care, concern, and bond with another person. I don't believe we even imagined that the love we feel for her could be so over whelming/strong. Each day is filled with similar tasks and play time, nothing is more fun than to watch her go. I find that I can't wait for her to wake up (from naps) so we can play, read, smile at each other and try to get her to laugh. Based on the pictures we have posted you may think she does not smile. The camera is an enigma to her and she gets the same mugshot (blue steel) type look when we bring it out.

New tricks: eating her toes, trying to give the "raspberry", sleeping in her new bed, reaching for everything...
Working on tricks: smiling for the camera :>, getting her top teeth (bulging gums)

My mom left last week so Carter is now the true stay-at-home dad.

First Hike

2008-01-08T19:10:00.000-08:00

We planned on hiking near Big Sur, but it was so cold we had to turn back.

5 months

2007-12-31T13:06:00.001-08:00

We put Poppy in the jacuzzi for the first time.