Happy 9th Birthday Andrew!

Andrew had a great birthday.  It all started with a super fun sleep over with best buddy Marcus.  We had Andrew's favorite food for breakfast-crepes.  Aunt Molly took him to Old Navy to pick out a new outfit.  The weather was almost warm, so we went to feed the ducks at the park by BYU.  Then we stopped at the famous JDawgs for tasty hotdogs.  Andrew went to the BYU/Utah basketball game with Marcus in the afternoon.  The day ended with dinner out with mom and dad and then a fun cake and ice cream party with family (thanks Costco for the delicious chocolate cake).  

FEBRUARY

Time sure does fly!! This month's highlights have been:

- Taxes done, and a nice return to boot.(yes!, I can pay some bills)
- Valentines day. A nice romantic dinner at home and a nice surprise. . . Anth got my wedding ring fixed. I can wear it again. It sure is nice to have a family to love.
- President's day weekend we spent in St. George. The weather wasn't as warm as we hoped, but no snow was nice.
- The first grade patriotic program is done and it went pretty well.
-Now I just have to get grades done. (there is always something)

Why I love Elli

Elli is my baby. She is five now! I love Elli's spunk. I love her dance moves that she shows off quite regularly. I love that she knows and sings all the songs from Mama Mia. I love that she is a girl. I love how she laughs. I love that she is opinionated and tells us what she is thinking. I love her hugs.

Why I Love Andrew

Andrew is a sweetheart. I love that Andrew is happy. I love how he says thank you to me after making a yummy dinner or for taking him somewhere. I love that he has his best buddy Marcus who is equally sweet and kind. I love that Andrew enjoys school and is a good student. I love that Andrew is witty and makes funny comments all the time. I love that he loves to read-especially that he loves to read The Friend magazine.

Why I love Anthony Jay

Anthony Jay is probably the nicest, sweetest 12 year old boy you will ever meet. I love that his Sunday School teachers are always telling me what an amazing kid he is-so smart and respectful. I love that Anthony will do anything for a member of his family. (sometimes I worry he is too self-sacrificing) I love that he willingly watches/babysits his younger brother and sister. I love that he never complains. I love the good example he sets. I love that his personality and sense of humor are starting to be like his dad's.

Weekend in St. George

We couldn't have asked for better weather in the middle of January. It was gorgeous and the kids had the best time playing outside-something they have missed more than we knew. The highlight was our visit to Red Cliffs. We hiked and the kids climbed and explored.

GIVING THANKS

This is the time of year to be thankful.... sometimes it is hard to see blessing when you are in the midst of a trial.  But the blessings are there.

I don't want to say much about the trial we are going through, but I do want to say a lot about the blessings we have received through dear friends and family who care.  When you look, it is easy to see the hand of the Lord.  I am so grateful for dear friends at school who have done so much to help me.  I am also thankful for my neighbor Marie-for being in tune and for being there.  Her cheerful disposition has brought me joy.  I'm grateful that my family members are also my friends.  They let me vent and cry and they give me so much support, both physically and emotionally.   I am also grateful for other caring, kind ward members.  I feel very loved.  So, thank you everyone!