Big Accomplishments!

Mitchell received his "Arrow of Light" award. It was exciting that he was able to earn and receive it with one of his best friends. He will miss Cub Scouts but is excited for the scouting program. He had a wonderful experience and wonderful leaders. Thank you Carin and Cheryl!


Mikelle received her "Young Women Recognition Award." She also has had some great leaders and has learned so many new things. Most important, it's been wonderful to watch her testimony grow through accomplishing the goals in each of the values.


Congratulations Mitchell and Mikelle!!!!

First Day of School

I'm a little late with this post....still trying to deal with the fact that it really happened. Summer always goes by too fast, but now that we are into the 3rd week of school, I think I have to accept the fact that it is over and gone.

Some pictures from the first day of school:

Mikelle: 10th grade


Mitchell: 5th grade


Madelyn: 2nd grade

We Miss Her!

Mikelle has been gone more than she's been home this summer. Although I am thrilled with the things she has been able to experience and to know the people she's met, I'm ready to have her home.


I miss:
watching Jane Austen movies
listening to her practice
her sweet, calming influence on the younger children
late night talks
the way her room smells after she gets ready
her Taylor Swift song dedications
her laugh
my flat iron

The Benefits of a Big Brother

She was hot...she was tired. She was DONE!! Mitchell didn't hesitate to help.

Rockin' R Ranch

Our family, with several close friends, stepped out of life for a few days, went to one of the smallest towns in Utah and stayed at a ranch. The girls felt like they were living with Laura Ingalls and the boys (young and old) lived out every "cowboy and indian" dream.

A few of the activities we enjoyed:


Barrel Racing: This girl acted like she'd been riding a horse her whole life!

Archery

A little swinging and exploring for hours

A few long talks...about what (and/or who)?

The crawfish the girls put in the boys shower!

...OH the pranks that went on...and on..and on....

Tubing and Boating

Hayrides

A little pond for canoeing and swimming

Crafts

Line Dancing..we'll use the term "line" a little loosely here...

Trail Rides every day

Late game nights/early mornings

Last, but certainly not the least--SING ALONGS!!!

Thanks everyone for the great time and the great memories!

My Favorite Childhood Look

Is there anything cuter than a toothless smile?


Seeing this makes me want to jump rope, play jacks, walk barefoot through the grass, climb a tree and eat a popsicle...

The Magician

Today was the last day of our soccer season. The boys ended with a win, completing an undefeated run.


They all play well


And most important, they encourage, support and ENJOY each other. As a parent, I also feel extremely lucky to have such amazing coaches for Mitchell. They really see the "big picture" and are teaching these boys life skills that will benefit them far beyond the soccer field.


After the game, the coaches gave each boy a certificate with a complimentary and appropriate title. Mitchell is now "The Magician."

I might point out that Mitchell is wearing a different color jersey than the rest of the team. Is it because he is extra special...or likes to stand out in a crowd...is it because magicians typically wear black or because he went straight to the game after a Father-Sons camp, for which he proudly and responsibly packed for himself (he didn't have his matching shorts either)...hmmm...you decide:)