Temple trip

We made a special temple trip last weekend with the youth, because we FINALLY,  have a 12 yr. old!! It was an awesome trip...though bittersweet- bitter: because I had to wait outside with the littles, but sweet because: dad was able to go in with Sebastian and participate in baptisms for the first time. The Orlando temple is a beautiful temple on sprawling grounds of beautiful lush greenery. The littles had so much fun running around, picnicking, and collecting bugs. I took a pic of each kid in front of the temple and hope to put them on canvas for our gallery wall.

 I love the feeling of tranquility the temple gives and the clarity we are given when we pray there. Our family has a lot to be thankful for and a lot to ponder in this time of transition. The trip was perfect timing, as everything in the Lord's time is.

 littlest to Biggest...

This young man...

Sebastian was ordained on Jan. 27th... the same day his baby sister was blessed, what a special day it was for our family. We are so grateful for this young man...grateful for his willingness to serve and for his good choices that allow him to do so. I was fighting back tears as I snapped these photos...seeing him in front of the temple in his white shirt and tie fueled my flame of hope that one day our sweet boy will serve an honorable mission. I know one day he will help teach the gospel to a family just like ours and bring them as much joy as the missionaries brought us.  I know the Lord has great plans for this boy and I know He's always watching over him.

Not ideal, but it'll do

Orlando Temple

Ainsley's Blessing

Our sweet little baby girl was blessed on January 27...sad I know, that I'm just now getting around to blogging about it. Dad's last blessing to one of his beloved little ones, and it was as beautiful as she. We are so grateful,  our last little spirit is here and she is as perfect as can be.

Last pre-teen year, YIKES!

This guy, what can I say, he's still our baby boy. He was ordained a Deacon on Jan 27, the same day his baby sister was blessed. If that wasn't reason enough for him to believe that Heavenly Father wanted him to be a good example to his sisters, Mia will turn 8 the week he turns 16, which is the age he will be able to baptize her. This kid reminds me everyday how lucky I am to the have gospel in my life, and with that, a source of guidance in our journey through the wonderful world of parenting a preteen boy. I make so many mistakes but I never stop believing I'll get it right one day. I just hope this kid knows not a day goes by that I don't thank the Lord for him. He is a kind-hearted soul who may not be perfect but always chooses the right when it matters most. He loves to fish and ride his long board and attend mutual at church. I hope that his love for nature and the gospel keep him on a righteous path toward going on a mission. We love you Bash. Mom

60 years of memories

 This year my mom turned the big 6 0 and we wanted to do something really special for her. What do you give someone who has given you everything your whole life. Hmmm, that's a tough one. Well, luckily Pinterest had the most amazing ideas. 

This was one I knew my mom would absolutley love... I sent out an email to all of our family, her friends, and her co-workers from over 30 years ago. (she worked in a hospital operating room for over 30 years and a lot of them still work there) I asked them to write a memory, anecdote, or just anything funny they remembered about my mom. The letters came pouring in...Her husband, brother and sister, her cousins, nieces / nephews, grandchildren, best friends, co-workers, doctors, nurses, you name it, starting sending letters. My brother and sister and our children even wrote some. 

Then I put them each in an individual envelope and mailed them to her. I wish with all of my heart that I could have been there when she opened them. I called her cell to which she rejected my call and sent a text saying "I'm on my third letter, tears flowing, I'll call you in a little bit"

Oh, I couldn't hardly wait to hear her reaction.  Needless to say she loved it...

...probably as much as I loved reading them as I received them. My brother and sister and I throughout the process got to reminisce about my mom's quirks and funny things she used to do and say. There is no gift in the world that could ever express how much she is loved.