Walk now for Autism!

We had the pleasure of walking on team "I like Ike" for the second year in a row this past Saturday to benefit Autism awareness. Isaac is our nephew who was diagnosed with autism when he was a young toddler, he is now 8 years old. He is such a  loving, adorable little guy with so many gifts and talents to share!

I just have to tell you all how truly amazing his parents are! Especially his sweet mom (Sorry B!). She throws her whole heart and soul into caring for her precious Ikey (as well as her other two darling kiddies). It isn't always easy, maybe it's never easy, but she always manages to find the beauty and humor (she can be hilarious!) in this frustrating disorder. I know that they both say that they are lucky to have Isaac, and there is no doubt that they love him deeply, but anyone who knows these two know that Isaac and his two siblings are truly blessed as well for having such FANTASTIC parents! They are such an inspiration to me.  

Anyway, the walk was incredible! Jenny did such a great job putting team "I like Ike" together and doing sooo much for the walk itself.  The day started out rainy but as the actual "walk" got started, the rain let up and we were able to stay dry, a little chilly however but it was worth it! 

My kids truly love being a part of this and they sure love their cousin Isaac. I am so grateful for the lessons he teaches us all. I can say that we don't just "like" Ike, but we LOVE that kiddo to death!!!

Easter!

We went to St.George this year over Easter break and enjoyed the sun, not much warmth, but at least SUN! I was hoping for the hot 80's and we were lucky to flirt with 70 and clear skies. It was so fun and the kids just loved being outdoors without coats.

We went on a fun little "hike" around Pioneer Park. Teagan went nuts climbing and crawling through every rock, cove, narrow we could find, he loved it! and we just crammed in all the outdoor recreation we could biking, swimming, The Dunes (Jenny's VERY Favorite part!), and just hanging out in our favorite place ever, St George.

We dyed Easter eggs and of course the Easter bunny delivered some goodies. We attended the local ward for Sacrament meeting and it was crazy! It was like a stake conference, but so amazing to see so many people, on their vacation, come and partake of the sacrament on such a sacred sabbath day. I love Easter and all that it represents! New life, The Resurrection, Hope.

Anyway we had a great time and I hope Spring and Summer last FOREVER!!!! 

Hair cut from H***!!

Teagan absolutely HATES getting his hair cut. So as a result I rarely take him in for one. But this time his hair has been too long and getting too thick to spike or faux hawk, so it was time.  The woman gave him a sucker first, hoping that would distract him but I knew better and I just told her to jump in with both feet and get it over with. It was funny though because he  kept getting hair in his mouth from crying and so he was licking his sleeve to get it off but he had hair all over his sleeve (and sucker now too) that he couldn't escape it! The best was watching him actually try to push the poor woman away from him and grabbing her wrists while she was trimming. ....I just wanted to share his torture with everyone. :) 

In the end he got his balloon and a new sucker and all was well again. I just hope I can make this haircut last about 2 1/2 years :) 

More Alex..

I just had to share Alex's April fools joke with ya'll.  Of course we don't really have puppies and the best was listening to him laugh when someone would read it. He thinks he's such a prankster! We love ya dude!

Jealous?

Hey can your kid play Mary had a little lamb using just their armpits? Well, mine can! And just when I thought I couldn't be more proud he blew my mind by proceeding to play it using the backs of his knees!....I know, he's the coolest.  Love ya Alex :)

So grateful!

I don't know why but today I am just feeling extra grateful for all of the wonderful people in my life and I just want them to know. I am so happy that my kids have both of their grandparents who live so close to them and who get to be such an active part of their lives. I didn't have that growing up. As much as I loved my grandparents they just were not around for special times in my life and I remind my children constantly of how lucky they are. And to have so many siblings and in-laws who I love so much and I adore each one for all of their unique qualities....

But today I just want to feature my immediate siblings (No offense to all my wonderful, wonderful in-laws, your time is next)

*Heidi-My sister and hero! I love you so much! You have been my savior so many times in my life and taught me more life lessons than I think you could ever imagine I survived a few heartbreaks only because I had an older, wiser, compassionate sister to cry to! She taught me everything I know about being a mom because she was the greatest example to watch. I love that you lived so close to us growing up, I don't think I would have survived without you! I could write pages and one day I will :)  

*Todd-My oldest brother and the coolest dentist I know! I have always tried to pattern my life after yours. Always so patient and put together but so fun at the same time. I always hoped I would marry someone half as great as you (How'd I do?). I admire your family so much, you are such a great husband and father to your brood and they are so lucky to have you!  

*Cory-My brother and the smartest person ever! I only survived math in college because he was there to tutor me with more patience than anyone should have to muster with me as a pupil! Cory has a very Christ-like nature that I have always admired. I love how hands on you are with your boys and how dedicated you are to Tiffany's comfort and happiness. You exude peace and I love that when I am around you.

*Jared-My older brother by 11 1/2 months! My protector since we were toddlers. He used to watch over  me when we were in the orphanage and even after we were adopted. My heart always breaks to imagine the pain he must have felt at such a tender age trying to watch over his two young siblings and probably not understanding why we were alone or what ever happened to our mother. I know he went through hard times for a while in his young adult years but I'd like to see anyone go through his experiences and NOT come out feeling a little bit lost. He used to carry me over mud puddles when I was little and when I got older he made sure I had everything I could possibly need or want even if it cost him his whole paycheck. I am so proud of you Jared and your beautiful family, your testimony and your sense of humor which mirrors mine to the T. We have a bond for sure and I love you so much brother! 

*Micah-My baby brother! Such a cutie, I used to resent him because everywhere we went everyone would gush over his long lashes and cute smile. My brother has always been able to smile away a bad situation. I love him for that! When he left on his mission I was so sad it was like he had died. I just needed his comforting nature and positive attitude around me. I loved the time we spent together before he left because we were able to be such good friends. I love kidding around with him and teasing "Jo" :). I love you baby brother!

Okay now that I am bawling I can't help but feel so  lucky for my fantastic family and I hope and pray everyday that my kids can grow up to be strengths to each other the way that my brothers and sister are to me.

SoCal

We were lucky enough to be in SoCal during their little 80 degree warm up so we hit the beach and just enjoyed being outside while we could. We had two beautiful days in Disneyland but on the third day we had to leave early because of the stupid rain and we have been in that same storm ever since! ...Anyway the kids had a blast as usual. Maddy got up the guts to ride every fast, scary ride at California Adventure and I had fun watching her conquer her fears. She still hates anyone dressed as a character though. Alex finally got to do the Jedi training and defeated Darth Vader, we were so proud :).  They collected cool seashells and starfish from the beach and then left them in the back of the car to stink the whole place up the next morning! Gross!! 

I was able to get my Sprinkles cupcake fix and we all loved the Newport Marriott resort we stayed at.

I just loved being with my family and our good friends the Hairs.