Taylee's Baptism

Taylee turned 8 August 25th, and was baptized into The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints September 29th, with her cousin, Samantha.  It was such a beautiful, wonderful day.  I cannot begin to describe how proud I am of my girl.  She is such a joy and blessing to have in our family.  She was so so ready to make this choice, and I have seen her mature, and grow leaps and bounds since her Baptism.  She is forever our moral compass, always reminding us what is right and wrong.  We love love love you so much, sweet girl, and we're so excited to see what you do with all of your amazing gifts!

We took some pictures at the Temple, on a rare sunny day.  She picked out her own dress online, and it ended up being just gorgeous, and it fit her so nicely.  

It was only fitting that these girls, born just shy of 5 weeks apart, and absolute best friends, should share their special day.  It will be such a terrific memory for them.

We used this picture for her announcement, with the words on top.

Always our little performer, Tay really wanted to sing at her Baptism.  She loves music, and as it is such a huge part of her life, she wanted to share that with everyone.  I played for her while she sang her favorite Primary song, "I will Follow God's Plan."  It added to the Spirit so much, and I loved that she was able to bear her testimony in that way.

I didn't get a picture of the back, but they both wore their hair in 2 braids, joined together in a messy bun,with a beautiful white flower corsage my mom and sister made for them.

The brothers baptizing their first borns.  It was such a wonderful experience.  I am so grateful for Jake, and the Priesthood he brings to our home.

 We got lucky again, and it ended up being a lovely day.  We had family and friends over to Jeremy and Monique's house afterwards, for a little luncheon, playing, and socializing.  We had some things come up in my family, and no one was able to come, but, we felt their Spirits, and missed them immensely. Only one more year, and I have to do this again!  Phew!  

A Little Instagram Love

I'm a little behind on blogging, and a little behind the times, unfortunately.  But, I recently discovered Instagram, and I must admit, I'm in love.  I do not remember to take my camera anywhere anymore.  But, I always have my phone.  And, after Instagram, the pictures I take with my phone actually look kinda awesome.  So, here's a little sampling. . .

Tristan keeps fully entertained during Rohne's ball games playing in the dirt.  What is it with boys and dirt?

Taylee actually has some great friends at school finally.  This is at Field Day today.  It only took her all year.

They had a cute Mother's Day Tea for the First Graders.  Tay made me this hat, and we got to drink lemonade and listen to some songs that they prepared just for mothers.  Cute.

Rohne and N. at Field Day today

Tug-of-War.  I remember this being one of my favorites at Field Day too.

My new nephew, Hudson.  Oh, how I love him so much.  So much.  He is absolutely, perfectly, delicious, and scrumptious.  My arms are aching right now to hold him.  Thank you so much for having a baby, Mo! 

Rohne is finishing out another year of Baseball.  He has not had a terrific season.   Just hasn't enjoyed it a whole lot.  Maybe it's not his thing.  And, that's okay. . .

We have a park that is at a church across the street from our house.  It's actually a really cool park, and the church doesn't mind if we play there.  It's kinda awesome that way.

I had been wanting to try out the "colored jeans" trend, but, too scared to cough up the money on something I wouldn't wear for long.  I found this awesome red pants at Goodwill for 5 bucks.  I feel bold when I am  wearing them with Bubber's hooker shoes.  (Sorry Mom.)

We took the kids on a Ferry ride to Bainbridge Island over Spring Break.  It was heavenly.   Ferries are one of the reasons why I tolerate rainy Seattle.  They're pretty much awesome.

Taylee's First Grade Music Concert

As I have mentioned before, my little girl is very shy.  I mean, painfully, at times.  Yet, she loves performing.  I mean, adores it.  It's like her favorite thing ever.  She had her 1st Grade Program last night.  And, she has literally been talking about it for weeks and weeks.  She was soooo excited about it.  Every day she would talk about it.  What she would wear, who's going to come and watch, what time she needs to be there, how long it's going to be, etc.  Plus, she was VERY excited that she got a solo.  Their music teacher had everyone who was interested audition for special parts. She really wanted a singing part, and when she came home with a rapping solo, I admit, I was a little bummed.  But, she seemed to be perfectly happy, and was so sweet saying that everyone who got singing parts sang them perfectly, and she did good at the rapping solo! 

Well, last night was the night.  I didn't quite know what to expect.  But, we dressed her up, and watched her shine!  And, I mean, glitter.  In my eyes, she stole the show.  I was so proud that I couldn't stop crying. I'm sure a lot of parents thought I was insane.   She struggles with so many things, socially, and often times, never lets anyone see how wonderful she truly is.  When she is on the stage, she comes alive, and becomes the Taylee we know and love.  I am a proud Mamma!

Just a Little

I am very aware how behind I am at blogging.  I guess I just haven't been feelin' it.  We also, really don't have much going on.  I fully plan on blogging Christmas and Thanksgiving one of these days though.  So, don't give up on me.  Here's a few pictures to "wet your palate."

 A few weeks ago, we had a lot of snow.  Then, after the snow, we got ice.  Lots of ice.  The kids were out of school for the whole week.  They loved playing in the snow for the first few days.  Then, they realized they would much rather just pester me inside.  We spent the whole week cooped up, not going anywhere really.  Which lead to the next week, every single one of us getting Strep Throat.  That was fun.  So, the kids missed another week of school.  Phew!!

 Whitney acted shocked that I didn't want to go out and play with them.  Yes, I grew up with cold, snowy, winters.  I didn't like them then, and it's no different for me now.  Give me palm trees, and sunshine all winter long, and I'd be happy.

Their first attempt at a snowman.  I think they made several more after this one.  Pretty good though!

Last night was the Father Daughter Valentine Dance at the High School.  Taylee has been counting down the days until this event.  She was so excited to go with her daddy.  She looked so pretty, and they had a wonderful time dancin' the night away.

Every day, I remind myself how blessed I am to have such a great guy in my life.  We have been going through some pretty tough times lately, but, he never wavers in his positive attitude, and love for life.  He is an amazing father, and husband.  (He's also turning 35 on Friday!  Yikes!)  So, Happy Birthday Babe.  I love ya.