Friday, January 30, 2009

Lovin the Snow

Christmas 2008






The kids were so excited on Christmas morning. From waiting on Bubba's stairs (from youngest to oldest), to opening presents, to playing with their toys, to playing with family members, to having Christmas dinner with Grandma and Grandpa Everett, the day was filled with excitement, happiness, love and memories. The kids favorite presents this year were Preston a DS and skateboard, Katie a cupcake maker and camara, and Natalie a Sleeping Beauty doll and Baby Alive. My favorite present was the beautiful diamond earrings that the love of my life gave me, and Brandon a gun for protection.

The Nativity - Christmas Eve





Christmas wouldn't be Christmas without acting out the nativity on Christmas Eve. This year was a great performance with many actors and a chorus of angels. It was fun for our kids to be able to share this tradition with their cousins. I will never forget all the angels, complete with Amerie in her little nudest angel rendition. Thanks to all who made this a great memory for my family!

Preston's Baptism - December 23, 2008









Preston was baptized on December 23rd by his father Brandon. He was baptized at the Mormon Center right next to the Sacramento CA temple. It was an experience that I will never forget. Preston was so excited but a little nervous on the day of. He was concerned about little things like where his jumpsuit was going to be, and how he was going to get into the fount. Brandon kept assuring him that he would be there right next to him the whole time. Preston had the opportunity to be baptized at the same time as his cousin Emily White, who was born 4 days prior to him. That will be a special memory that they will always share together. At the baptism he had most of his family on both sides with him, save a few aunts, uncles and cousins. The spirit was so strong. Both of his Grandmas gave talks, and both of his Grandpas were witnesses. I've never seen Preston so attentive, trying to soak in ever little thing. It was such a wonderful experience to witness your oldest child enter the gate of eternal life aided by his Dad, a worthy priesthood holder. It was an amazing thing for Brandon to be a conduit in which the Holy Ghost could be given. Since his baptism Preston has really been trying hard to be an agent, repent, and have the spirit with him always. I am so proud of his decision to be baptized, and am so thankful for the choice blessings our family continually enjoys. Thank you to all who have loved, supported and helped Preston throughout his life. This life is not about us individually but how we help each other make it back home. We love you!

Christmas Cookies With Bubba




What Christmas would be complete without cookies for Santa? Here are some pictures of the talented chefs and their preparations.

We May Not Have It All Together, But Together We Have It All!




Bubbas Darling Christmas Dresses!




For Christmas Bubba bought matching Christmas dresses for all the girls 8 and younger. They were darling. Thought you'd like a peek...

Story Time With Bubba



Every night while staying at Bubba's house for Christmas, Bubba read the kids Christmas stories. All the kids loved it, and looked forward to it every night. Thanks for the memories Bubba!

Love Bug!



While we were packing for California Natalie got on her Halloween costume from over a year ago (yes, she still fits into it). She started jumping up and down on the bed trying to fly, but ended up just landing in suitcases. She always keeps up smiling!

Dress Ups



Dress ups are part of my girls everyday wardrobe. Just thought you'd like a sneak peek at a favorite from last month.

If you need a smile . . .

Decorating the Tree




The kids LOVED decorating the tree for Christmas. We sang Christmas carols, told stories, and just enjoyed being with one another. Those of you that know us best will laugh at Natalie's picture (hey at least she has a shirt on).

Happy Birthday Natalie!






Happy Birthday Natalie! Natalie had a great birthday! She woke up early to open her presents and loved every minute of it. Then we all played Pollys, princesses, dress up and Barbies for the remainder of the day. It was a perfect day for our darling little girl. Natalie is truly a joy in all of our lives. She can light up a room, and melt all our hearts at the same time. We love you!

Friday, January 16, 2009

Preston's a Cub Scout




Preston was so excited for his first day of scouts. He passed off a whole section before even going. He takes his book to school with him most days so he can read it if he has a spare moment. He's determined to pass his "Wolves" before summer, so he can spend the summer working on belt loop achievements. I think he looks quite handsome in his scout uniform!

Happy Birthday Preston!!






Preston's 8th birthday was a very special day, week, month...! We had a family party on his actual birthday. We went to Carls Jr. for dinner and then to Nickelcade. Nickelcade is set up a little like Chuckee Cheese but better. All the kids had fun. Then we had cake and ice cream at home and opened presents. Later that same week he had a "friends" birthday party. It was a movie/pizza night. It was a crazy and fun night (he invited 10 boys)! Then of course later the next month he had his real birthday gift and was baptized. I'll do a separate post for that. This was a very exciting time for Preston as well as Brandon and I. Preston is such a good boy! He trys so hard to do what's right, is a good friend to everyone and has an excitement for life that is contagious. We love you Preston.