May 2014 part 4

My baby is 6 months old!!!

How did that happen??

In honor of her half birthday, we maybe had a little photo shoot.

She was so happy, even with a runny nose.

And of course, Jaina had to be in on the picture taking as well.

Yet another picture that I adore.

I love that I have an iPhone with a good camera and that I can catch these sweet moments.

Jaina was adamant that she hold Melody's hand while riding in the car.

A few days later, Pat and I were able to attend the temple. We made this goal in January 2010 to attend the temple EVERY month, and we have been able to do it! Even through the birth of two kids, we have made it work, and it has made our marriage stronger.

At 6 months old, she finally found her feet.

And Daddy even lets her play with his toys!

Yummy, Yoda!

I have noticed that when Melody sits up she curls her toes! 

It makes me smile.

Xander got a new pull string flying toy and wanted to play with it at the park. 

So one Sunday after church we went to check it out.

They got to the highest point to use it, and it was very windy, so they went zooming!

All while Melody chilled on the blanket.

And Jaina played on the playground.

Now that she sits, the kids are putting her on the couch.

At least this time she had a book to look at!

And big brother was near and watching over her.

May 2014 Mother's Day

May 11th, 2014

Mother's Day

I am so in love with each of these little people that call me 'mom' and am grateful that they picked me.

We don't always get along, but I'm thankful that they are mine forever!

My Canon isn't the easiest thing to use to take a selfie, but it's fun anyway.

My 3 girls are so different in more ways than just their looks. 

But they are all MINE!

It was so great to be able to visit Mana on Mother's Day.

Mara was so sweet and made a picture for Karri.

And one for Mana.

Jaina loves Karri so much. Some days I think she loves her more than she loves me.

I got Mana a necklace...

It has the birthstones of all her grandchildren.

We got to visit Grandma too!!

I love that Olivia is always wanting to give hugs and kisses to Melody, 

but sometimes Melody doesn't care too much.

One of my gifts. 

Karri gave me my very own Lilac bush.

Hooray!

May 2014 part 2

I love that my kids will just sit and watch Melody. They think she is so fun to watch!

On May 5th, the kids had dentist checkups. Jaina had never willingly sat in the chair until this time!

She did pretty good too.

She didn't really like their brushing tool, so they just used a regular tooth brush.

She didn't get any xrays, but so far her teeth look great!

This is one of my most favorite pictures. I wish Melody would stay this little forever.

Jaina has been more willing to let Mara do her hair and this was the result.

Jaina is always wanting and willing to help Pat outside, but I think it's because she loves to play in the dirt.

Melody has gotten better at sitting up for a longer stretches, and even played with a toy!

I had fun getting pictures of her, until she fell and was sad.

It's rare to get a sad picture of her.

On May 9th, Mara had her end of year program.

Here she is with Miss Beck

I was so happy to be able to see her program.

And Mana came too! It made Mara so happy!

May 2014 Mara's Baptism

On Saturday, May 3rd, Mara made the choice to be baptized a member of 

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.

Pat baptized her and did a great job.

Here they are, all ready in their jumpsuits.

I was so excited to be able to help get her ready for this amazing covenant. 

I even got a few pictures of her right before she was dunked.

Then right after. Can you see that amazing smile?

I love this family picture.

We were so blessed to have so much family come to support her on this amazing day.

Brent, Lisa, Max, Conli, Sawyer, & Finley

Skyler Ridley (dad's cousin)

Lana, Noah, Maddox, & Olivia

Lana needed her own picture too.

Gwen, Doug, Jeremy & Cody

Mana & Karri

JD & Chris

Grandma & Grandpa

Liza, Carter, Alex & Addi

Lisa even made yummy cookies in the number 8!!

I love having our home filled with the people we love and being able to celebrate such a wonderful day.

And the day isn't complete without a pic of this cutie pie!

The next day, Mara got all dressed up with new jewelry from family to wear with her dress.

Such a beautiful girl on a very special day.