Tender Memory

Lucy's baptism, in addition to being a very special day, brought back a flood of memories. I hadn't really connected the day until Christie asked me to recreate the picture she had had with her grandma Lucy on her baptism day. Well, the tears just flowed then, and even now as I think about it. It was just 2 weeks later that grandma died. Christie had shared a special bond with her as they shared birthdays, and this picture of them together on her baptism day was probably the last one we took of her. It is funny to me that it has been so many, many years now but a memory like this can catch me and bring it all back like it was yesterday. Life has come full circle now, but I still miss my mom a lot. She was one of the best.

Reunion Memories

This year reunion was fun as always and will be especially memorable because of the baptism. It was so great to have everyone together. Some of my favorite memories are the wall of tents: Breakfast Hair braiding and fingernail painting The "fights" Swimming & tubing And--ah yes, the naps! It was great to be together for the wedding as well and see all the aunts, uncles and cousins again. Everyone loved the tramp--Laura even did a somersault. The cotton candy was a big hit and kept the kids busy. After the baptism we had a great time at the park along with Darren's family. Everyone loved the root beer--grandpa's specialty. I am still amazed at the basketball game--it was so HOT! We had a great time that evening. The girls loved the crafts, we had a great recycled meal, and a memorable blessing on the food. The favorite time is always the talent show. I am so sad that most of my pictures didn't turn out, but we did get a few. This year taught us a few things--like we want to do it earlier--so we can see everyone and so the law enforcement officers don't have to come and tell us we are disturbing the peace at 11:00 at night. It was great though and we loved to see everyone do their talents. Thanks to everyone for a great memory. I know it always requires sacrifice of time and money and a million other things you could be doing, but it really is one of the highlights of our lives to be together and see and feel of your love for us and each other. I hope we can preserve the memory in our hearts and minds--especially through pictures. Maybe everyone could send pictures to Johnny--hint, hint John--and he could do his amazing thing with them. It would be great. Much love!

Happy Birthday Liz!

Liz had her birthday Aug 7th, so this is late in coming. She got to go see her grandmother over her birthday weekend. She and her sister and the children traveled to California and then to Arizona. They had a good time and we are glad they are back safe. We hope this is a great year for Liz. She is always one that will help everyone out and often gets to tend for others. She has been a life saver that way. She is really good with babies especially! Many of our pictures of Liz are of her holding babies. This is with James I think. She is also very creative and often does projects with our little ones. We are so thankful that she became part of our family. Happy year ahead, Liz!

Happy Birthday, Addie Mo

Well, ever since Addie's 3rd birthday,she has been anticipating when she gets to turn 4. That day finally came and she is pretty happy that she is 4--like Sydney and Taylor and Charli. She gets to celebrate with cake and ice cream today and a swimming party next weekend, so she is excited. Addie is a fun and funny little girl. She didn't like solid food at all when she was a baby. She was pretty stubborn and has remained so. So, life is pretty good if you want to do what she wants to do. She is a sweetheart and remains loving and happy most of the time. Did I mention she is stubborn? This picture reminds me of someone--any guesses? We sure do love our Addie and hope she loves her 4th year.