The Well Rounded Diet...

What else do you feed a 2 year old?

***Actually, most of her meals are healthy, but the "junk" makes for much cuter pictures. :)

Want a good cry? :)

Maybe I'm just one big softy, and you can laugh at me... but I totally cried at this movie.  But I loved it! It is SOOO good!

Parenting and Beauty

When I was between the ages of 16-19, I babysat for a family that became an extention of my own.  For so many reasons, I believe that family was put into my life.  One of the many, many things I learned from watching the mom of this family, was that even though she wasn't perfect, she LOVED her kids... a lot.  It was so obvious that she thought they walked on water.  She praised them all the time and bragged on them all the time too.  Never in a boastful or competitive way, for you could see it in her eyes just how her heart was full with adoration for them.  The most miraculous lesson for me, was that even though the kids weren't perfect either, I could tell how their mother's attitude toward them made them always want to please her.  I knew they worked extra hard to never disappoint her. It is amazing what praise can do! I miss them so much, but am so thankful for their example.  I knew when I had kids that I too would want to show them how proud I am of them all the time!  And my kids have made that super duper easy.  My heart too is full of adoration and pride for my children.  I feel so grateful for them.  Tremendous love. 

So, the other day when Sommer snatched my camera and took these pictures, I couldn't help but praise her for a great job.  It comes as no surprise to me that she is a great little photographer, because she always sees beauty all around her.  I am so glad we named her Sommer- I feel that it fits her perfectly.  Beautiful and warm, that girl is.  She took these photos in and around our yard with no help, prompts, or ideas but her own. 

Good job, My Sommer- shine. 

You are so good! 

I love you!

Summer Evening

We spent the evening of Father's Day out by the river.  As you can tell, some of my children are better than others at sticking around for a few pictures.  I won't mention the name of the one who wouldn't.  :)  It was a gorgeous night, perfect lighting, and lots of fun as a family.  All of the kids, except Braydon, are sporting watermelon stains around their mouths.  Too cute.  Ahhh... I love summertime!

Think sweet thoughts...

She helps me do that.

Grief and Gratitude

This week has been hard.  Like Really hard!  We unfortunately had a tragic accident happen to our baby cousin and instead of getting to celebrate his first birthday yesterday, his parents had to hold his funeral  instead.(Little Chad's obituary: here) I feel so much anguish for his parents.  My heart aches for them.  I can't seem to keep the tears at bay.  I have had so many nightmares and so much anxiety over my own children- realizing how fast something like this can happen. Lives forever changed.  With something like this, however, I am reminded of how grateful I am for my blessings: my own family.  I love these people so much and feel we were perfectly matched to teach and love each other for this life and forever.  I do KNOW that we can be eternal families and that our Heavenly Father has a plan for us.  I know He wants us to be happy.  I am so thankful for my Savior and His gospel.  I guess I feel the need to acknowledge my blessings, express my love for my children, and show gratitude that we are all together today.   I hope that I will take the time to cherish every little moment.