Happy Birthday Madeline

Happy 11th Birthday Madeline!  You were seriously the cutest baby girl on the planet 

I feel like crying because you are so darling and where did the time go?!?!

Now you're the cutest 11 year old girl on the planet.  Growing up so fast and turning into the most delightful little lady.

 Your piano skills, your creativity with crafting, your love for imagination.  Your kindness and love.

 I'm grateful to be your mother

 I'm grateful to feel your joy for life

 I'm grateful you love me so much.

 Your heart is most beautiful.

 I'll love you forever!

 Happy Birthday!

Good

Indian Peas and Potatoes

 Hot Chocolate with big scoops of peppermint ice cream floating on top

 Creme Caramel

 Ice Cream Sandwiches

 Rosemary Focaccia...twice

 Ice cream!

The sweet buns with dried berries and cherries I made and didn't take of picture of were also good.

Lots O Stuff

Family pyramid...sort of :)

 I'm in Young Women's now.  I'm with the six new Beehives and they are awesome girls.  I'm excited to be able to teach and be with them.

 Ollie isn't too impressed with the trampoline but I try...

 Cooper's eyes are improving and it makes me feel very grateful.  The eye drops we've been putting in have helped his lazy eye heal and the hope is that it stays that way!  We are currently weaning off the drops over the course of the next few months.  More appointments to come, but things are looking up.

 Madeline's recording studio.  She saw it in a magazine and decided to make it herself.  Of course she did!

 Oliver is most happy when he's got me tied around his finger.  For real.  

 Madeline inspired me to try knitting.  I gave it a go 7 years ago and opted to stick with crochet.  But it has been fun to try knitting again.  I made her doll a little wash cloth.  Nothing like starting with a project you actually can finish!  Ha!

 A tower TALLER than Dad!

 January 13th was a sad day for Cooper...He fell onto the arm of the couch playing football with Ethan and chipped his two bottom front teeth.  Oh my!  It makes me really sad...there isn't much we can do for now.  My poor baby...

This is the boy version of a tea party I think

 Beanie Boo tower!

 CrAzY tubby hair.  Teehee

And Mom and Dad can hardly wait for school to start again...

at home

 at school

yep

2019 Theme

Our Family Theme for 2019:

Be a Builder

There are so many ways to be a builder.  Build self with personal improvement goals, build others by being kind.  Build faith and testimony.  Build the kingdom.

I feel like my family and I have been given so many gifts and blessings that enable us to build up those around us.  I have had experiences in the last few weeks where I can see that I can have influence for good simply by remembering and trying to be a builder in everything I say and do.  I'm excited for this year and hope to feel true change in all of us!  I know I'm a better mom when I'm trying to be a builder.

Sledding in the New Year

Happy Happy New Year!  We woke up early and went out for our 9th Annual New Year's Day Sledding Extravaganza.  Mt Baker National Forest was breathtaking.  The first sight of snow on the trees brought tears to my eyes.  It kind of surprised me!  I just was overcome with the beauty and I think I missed having snow this Christmas.  There is magic in snow and I loved being up there this morning!

 The kids were excited.

 We were glad Grandpa joined us!

 The snowflakes were amazing and perfect.  It was so crazy awesome to watch them land on our coats and see their perfect awesomeness.

Aren't my people cute?  I love being with them.  It was cold and crowded but lots of fun.  Hot chocolate was the perfect finishing touch.

Welcome 2019.  We're ready for you!