Taylor Turns 9!

Yesterday was Taylor's 9th birthday. What a day it was! All that Taylor has been asking for is a puppy for years. (I had told her before Matthew was born that this baby had to be at least 1 before we would think about getting a dog and now he's almost 2.) It was a tough decision because I'm allergic to dogs, but once I heard that having a pet is one of the best ways to teach a child responsibility I was sold. Sean and I have been researching for the past few weeks about hypoallergenic dogs. On Saturday Sean found just the right dog and we surprised Taylor the next day!
At the beginning of the day we told Taylor she would not be getting a dog. She was definitely bummed, but was trying to be a good sport. I had wrapped some gifts in dog wrapping paper and gave her a dog card. I said that this could help replace not having a dog and she said, "Mom, you're just rubbing it in." That night Sean's family came over. Heather said she had one more gift to get and came around the corner with the dog. Taylor screamed and we were all so excited. It was hard for her to go to school today because she wanted to be with the dog. He is a sweet puppy and the final name is "Squirt".
Taylor we love and you are an amazing little lady. You have always brought so much love, peace, and laughter to our home. You have so many talents and you deserved a wonderful birthday.

Daddy/Daughter Dance

Every year our city has its annual Daddy/Daughter Dance. Hundreds of dads and daughters come to boogie the night away. This year was no exception. Earlier that day Taylor's friend, Hope had a b-day party where the girls got dressed up for the big event...so fun! Here are some pictures of the night. Sean and Taylor loved it and made great memories. Before bed that night Taylor said to me..."I have the best dad ever"!

Love this boy!

We love our Matty Mac

Thoughts

My thoughts these past weeks have turned to how much I adore my kids and husband. I am in love with their hugs, kisses, drawings, handprints and conversations. This blog is mainly for our little family, so I want to remember my feelings. Life is going too fast and I have to take these moments to appreciate the wonderful day-to-day life they give me. My life would be so different if I were not a mom...I think I would be more organized and put together, but I'd much rather be where I am and doing what I'm doing.

I just had a birthday and that morning I woke up with a "Birthday Girl" ribbon pinned to my shirt! I then walked out to the living room and there were streamers hung and birthday signs all over. Taylor had waited until we were asleep and then (with a flashlight) put everything together for my birthday the next day. What an amazing surprise. Sean and the kids showered me with love for the next few days. I loved Austin's birthday mashashe= massage. I LOVE BIRTHDAYS!

(One of my favorite moments of my birthday was sitting in a dim restaurant and talking with Sean. I love our conversations. He is still my best friend and can make me laugh everyday. I know I'm the luckiest girl in the world.)

What Life Brings-2009

It's been over a month since I last posted anything. The house is quiet with sleeping kids and hubby is gone, so I will attempt to put some thoughts into words. If I could describe the last 2 weeks in one word it would be...emotions! Christmas and New Years were absolutely wonderful, chaotic, soothing, and full of fun. (Below I will post pictures and details.)

Since we have been home my emotions have gone from excited, happy, sad and everything in-between. We arrived home from AZ on a Friday night. The next day we got a call and on Sunday Sean was called to be in the bishopric. A couple of days later my wonderful Grandma Frances passed away. I then got sick and was just feeling yuck trying to make arrangements to leave. I flew to Cambria, CA and had an amazing time with siblings and relatives. Lastly, my birthday is in a couple of days and I'm just not too excited to be another year older.

Through all of the "emotions" I'm thankful for a wonderful, supportive husband and loving kids. I can't wait to see what 2009 brings!

Grandma Frances and Cambria, CA

I wish I had a picture on my computer to post of this beautiful woman I was able to call "Grandma". She lived 89 wonderful years and I'm so grateful for her life and my awesome dad that she raised.

At her graveside service the history of her life was read. She did remarkable things and raised 4 great kids. She was even a Clairol model! I'm so happy she is with Grandpa and Bill now and I know she's happy.

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The house in Cambria, CA used to be my grandparent's cabin until they retired. I can still say that it is one of my favorite places to be on this earth. You have the mountains and pine trees and the beach is right there too. It is gorgeous.














All 5 of us siblings flew out. No spouses or kids were able to come. Although this was unfortunate I must say that is was an amazing experience for all of us to be together. We laughed and laughed and had such a great time. It was like we were all growing up together again (but we are mature and get along). I love my brothers and sister...they each are unique and talented in their own ways. They are examples to me and I love being with each one of them.

My parents (and Greg) were there and they added the cherries on top. My dad gave a perfect talk on the Plan of Salvation. Carol welcomed us with open arms. Gary, Mary and their 3 kids came and Janet and her kids with spouses also came. They are crazy and I love it. I haven't seen some of these cousins in years. I have so many fond memories of being with them, so it felt like I was coming "home" in a different sort of way. This trip couldn't have been any better. (We even fit in Hearst Castle).

















When I came home and told Sean all about it I had tears in my eyes. He was confused. He wasn't sure if I was happy or sad and I didn't know either. I was sad to see Grandma go, but I'm happy she's in a better place. I was also happy to be with great family members. What a joyous trip.

Lunch with Friends

OK...I think I have some of the longest and best friends ever! I am so blessed! On two different days I was able to meet with all of my great friends in AZ. I have been friends with almost all of these ladies since elementary school. How many years is that??? There is such a history there that can never be replaced. I loved every minute of it...Thank you BFFs :)