Bikes, Trains, and Stargazing

The first thing the kids did this morning was hop in the train. We drove around the neighborhood. Jared and Christine arrived while the kids were asleep. They needed a place to sleep before the second half of their trip to Colorado. The kids were so anxious for the cousins to wake up. So, after the train ride we rode motorcycles and four-wheelers. Mary hit the only ditch in the entire field and flipped off the motorcycle. That was scary, but we're glad she was unharmed.

Once the cousins woke up they ran around the house doing every fun thing. Marcus and Noah even planned out times of what to do..from 9:30 to 9:45 they rode motorcycles, 9:45-10:00 played a game of ping pong, etc. So cute. Aaron took the kids on a train ride to the creek which they rope swung across.

At about noon Adam, Kelly, and kids arrived with lunch. It was so nice of them to come out again. Christine and Jared hadn't met Adam and Kelly's kids so it was fun to catch up and talk about all the Bountiful happenings.

The remainder of the day was spent swimming and playing on the basketball court (with newly installed hoop). Nicole spent some time without her floaties in the pool. It is really starting to click for her. Noah's eyebrows are turning white in the sun and the kids are all getting tan pretty quickly.

Just before the sun went down Aaron set the kids up to sleep out on the terrace. We told stories and watched the sun set. It was so wonderful. The kids fell asleep happily. Micole made it to about 1 and Cameron 3. I was impressed since it gets chilly out there.

Nick's Farewell, The Myers, and Lessons from Papa Steve

Nick's farewell was amazing. He spoke about the plan of salvation and as he was speaking I kept thinking about the wonderful missionary he will be. He has prepared himself so well. At the end of the meeting all the young men in the room walk to the front and sing "We'll Bring the World His Truth". It is a ward tradition and so touching. There must have been 60 young men up there.Then we headed to Steve and Stacy's gorgeous house for cafe rio food and lots of fun catching up with the Murphy's who I haven't seen in a long time. It was a perfect day.

Then we stopped at Aaron's Aunt Marilou's house to visit and spend time with cousin Nathan and his wife, who we hadn't even met! Caleb, their new baby was sleeping but we did get to see Melissa and her family. I just love that family so much. I hate living so far from everyone.

Nearly all of the kids fell asleep on the way home to Heber. It was warm and the kids really wanted to go swimming. So we took a nice Sunday walk after dinner followed by some of Grammie's delicious cake. Then we threw the ball around a little. The kids loved playing baseball with Aaron.

Just before bed Steve gathered the kids together for a little lesson. It was so lovely. I could listen to him speak forever. He took a soccer ball and drew the North and South Poles on it with a pen. Then he drew North America and showed them where Oregon and Utah are. The kids were surprised how close it was on the map since it feels so far when we are driving (which was fresh on their minds).

Then he spoke about how Nick gave a talk just before he started his mission. Steve explained where Jerusalem was on the ball, almost half way around the world. He told them that Jesus also gave a talk in Capernum by the sea of Galilee at the beginning of his mission. He told them that we can find what he said in the Bible. He proceeded to read and explain 4 important Beattitudes. It was remarkable how Steve can simplify the gospel in a way that is really easy to understand yet very meaningful. He did that at Mary's baptism. I love that he does this during our reunions. It's a very special tradition that I hope we will always replicate.

Nadauld Reunion: Arrival

We pulled into Heber at 6:20 Utah time, 5:20 Oregon...exactly 12 hours door to door. In anticipation of our arrival I thought it was best to pack all the swim gear in a separate and quickly locatable bag. The kids changed faster than I had ever seen and joined Adam and Kelly's kids who had been swimming for the first time in the new pool. The kids were in heaven. We toured the new garage and yard work..it's definitely been a big project. Then we played, visited, and ate some nice homemade dinner (a real treat after traveling and eating McDonald's food). The drive wasn't bad at all. Trips are so much easier now that the kids are older. Unfortunately for Aaron I slept almost the entire way here. He's a good husband to let me do that. I really love Utah and I'm so excited to see everyone!

The Final Hurrah!

It's been a wonderful week of cousin lovin'. We had play dates again this morning and then a trip to McDonalds (not the best choice since we'll probably hit one on our way to Utah tomorrow). Then we went to the park and a swimming party for Ike. When we got home we were tired, but there was still enough steam left in us to pack up and prepare for our trip. I'm looking forward to relaxing in the passenger seat and dozing off.

The Good Life

These kids are so blessed with cousins for playmates. All the kids changed into their swim suits several times today hopping back and forth between the kiddie pool and hot tub. We also set up the two-person tent Aaron and I got from our wedding for the kids to play in. Every time I see that tent I think back to the time shortly after our honeymoon when Aaron and I camped in the back yard of our duplex. In the middle of the night, the sprinklers automatically turned on and we rushed into the house completely soaked. Cameron and Estelle hid themselves in the tent from the "monsters outside" screaming every time they put their heads up. We had the Shirts come over after Mary's last day at soccer camp for a little play-date. Between cousins and good friends we really are living the good life.

Give Her Some Space

Since Stelley is so adorable the kids are constantly wanting to snuggle right up to her. Sometimes I have to rescue her and ask the kids to give her a little space, like in this picture where Nikki was trying to make funny faces to make Estelle laugh. It's been so fun watching all the cousins with my mom. We cook and clean together, play and plan together. It's the perfect balance. I love my mom.

Old Woman Who Lived in a Shoe

It was crazy hair day at soccer camp today. We didn't have a lot of time so we kept it simple. But she looked so cute with all those bows. Mary doesn't like long shorts so she hikes them up to her comfortable spot, shown below...

For a couple hours following camp today there were 14 children here playing, eating, swimming, jumping, running, and zippety-zooming around the house. It made me think of the old woman who lived in a shoe, she had so many children she didn't know what to do. Lucky for me we weren't confined to a small space and my mom and I worked together to care for the kids (their moms' left for girls camp today).

Follow the Prophet

Today the leader of the Ordain Women's group was excommunicated. It's a sad day. Not because I align myself in any way with her beliefs or ideas but because I feel a sadness for her decisions and for her pain.

I have debated sharing my beliefs on facebook or commenting on friends' posts, as I have in other similar issues such as gay marriage. But I refrain, not because I am ashamed, but because arguing with the world is a losing battle. I've read this feminist movement's arguments and I've read some commentary for and against them. I could sit here and debate their requests for what they see as equality or inequality. But in the end, what it all boils down to is that fact that I believe this is God's church, not man's. I believe that we have a prophet who receives revelation for our church. And I believe that the source of our doctrine is God.

It is just that plain and simple.

I thought the Bishop's letter to Kate Kelly was beautiful. I hope she can see that all of this was not an act of damnation, but an act of love and hope, the great hope of Christ's atonement. I hope that this excommunication brings some clarity for others as well.

I believe Satan is desperately trying to deceive us, even the very elect. I think this movement is full of his lies mixed with truths, his great handiwork. None of us are exempt from his fiery darts. We all need to strengthen and protect our testimonies each day and fill our lives with the Spirit...it will keep us humble, it will keep us teachable, and it will keep our hearts close to truth.

I worry all the time for you my children and grandchildren and great grandchildren. I cannot completely shelter you from this world. But I will sure try and remind you of the safety that comes from following the prophet. We are so blessed to have him and all our leaders.

This quote from Sister Oscarson, shared today I think as a result of this experience, left me with something important to remember:

"All of us as sisters in the gospel have the responsibility and privilege to support and nourish one another. We have all committed to be disciples of Jesus Christ, and this discipleship should be at the heart of all that we do. Each of us is in a different place in our spiritual journey. Some may struggle with testimony. Some have questions or wrestle with the pressures and trials of life. Those who are struggling for whatever reason should be able to find within our sisterhood a spirit of warmth, inclusion and love.

“Occasionally, some of our brothers and sisters may find themselves away from the fold because of personal choices. Without condoning those choices, it is important to remember the Savior’s message of leaving the ninety and nine safely in the fold and reaching out with love, with kindness and with compassion to the one. We can demonstrate that compassion by ensuring that our communications with one another are respectful and kind."

On a much happier note I got a lot of church calling work done today as well as housework and grocery shopping. I don't love grocery shopping (by the way). Mary started a soccer camp this week and Noah spent the morning playing so sweetly with the younger kids. I really love having them home.The check-out lady at the grocery store called over two other employees to have them come see Cameron's eyelashes today. I'm telling you, those things get some attention. I also took a picture of Nicole eating some Oreo cookies, or should I say just the middles of them. Totally random day recap. It was a good one.

Dearest Children

Dear Children,
It's been a month since I've posted anything on my blog. I have an ongoing list of pictures and subjects that I hope to catch up on. I was speaking with a friend a while back who told me not to worry about posting something everyday. I explained to her that if I didn't concentrate on it a little each day then I forget to take pictures and record all the wonderful moments of motherhood.

After some amazing talks and lessons today on family history and awakening to the work of the restoration I have decided to continue trying to post everyday, understanding that it's okay if I get a little behind (or a lot as in this case). I also realized that I can eliminate any selfishness (pride) related to public "brag blogging" if I concentrate on who this blog is for...I've read that before in blogging groups and tips...know your audience.

I've concluded that my blog is for you, my wonderful children. It's your beauty, your strength, your love, and growth that I hope to capture in my simple daily snippets. And it's my testimony of our loving Father, His perfect Son, and His great plan of happiness that I hope to share with you now and forever. You are precious.
xo
Mom

A.W.O.L.

At about 1:30 am early this morning Cameron got kicked in the head by a sleepy camper. It started a chain reaction of coughing, wheezing, and crying loud enough to wake up every father and son at the camp site. After some patient fathering attempts Aaron was left with no choice but to leave Noah behind with his uncles and hop in the car with his only located shoe and drive home.

At about 2:30am I was awakened by Aaron and a coughing Cameron. Confused by the two girls snuggled next to me and the surprise return of the boys I dazeley hopped out of bed. I grabbed Cameron some allergy medicine since he wasn't sick before he left, assuming it was some kind of weird reaction to the camp fire. Then I gave him a bath and soothed him to sleep with a little back rub. The cough was gone by 3am and he happily slept in all morning.

Hopefully next year's father and sons goes a little smoother.

Splits

Aaron took the boys to a ward father and son campout this evening. Noah and Cameron were ecstatic! I grabbed a bunch of junk from the store for all the manly snacking needs. The girls and I hit the mall for dinner and back to Christine's house for some girls camp craft prep and a movie.

Aloha Kids Camp

The kids loved their week at kids camp with Joey. They have "visited" many countries around the world...South Africa, China, Mexico, France, and our U.S's Hawaii. It's also been very nice having some one on one time with Mary and Cameron. Until next year...Aloha!

Friends

We had Madeline and Andrew over while today while Noah and Nikki were at kids camp. Mary and Madeline painted and played chopped. Cameron and Andrew played outside and did tricks on the tramp. I just love these good friends.

My Instead of I

I love that Cameron replaces the word 'I' with the word 'my' like when he said, "My found a rollie pollie!" today. It's so cute I have a hard time correcting him.

Swim Lessons 2014

Noah and Nicole Started kids camp this morning. Mary, Cameron and I went to Old Navy to get some summer clothes.

Then we headed to Joanna's pool for swim lessons for all four of them! We are just so blessed that Sarah chooses to teach our kids how to swim every year. This year I hope that Nicole will get a good jump start to becoming an independent swimmer. She was already much more daring when it came to going under the water than last year. The kids did great and they had lots of fun swimming together after lessons.

We all got together for dinner at Damian and Sarah's. The Cerecedes came to visit this week and it was fun chatting and catching up on old friends.

Father's Day Awards

It's a special day. I think about all the special men in my life...especially my kind and gentle father, loving and devoted husband, my wise and talented father-in-law and my amazing and good brothers and brother-in-laws. I feel so blessed to have been surrounded by men who are all so honorable and Christ-like.

Noah's Robot & Anniversary Date

Noah has gotten several lego sets for birthdays and Christmases. Recently he's been taking the legos from various gifts and designing robots. I love seeing all his amazing creations.

Tonight Aaron and I slowed it down a bit and took the evening to celebrate our anniversary which was two days ago. We saw the movie Malificent and ate dinner. It was glorious. I can say that looking back it's pretty amazing to see what we've created and built, with God's help, in the last ten years.

Peek-a-Boo! I see you!!!

Cameron and Estelle (and sometimes with the help of Noah) have been playing together under the kiddie pool today. It was the funniest thing watching them giggle under it while walking around the back yard stopping to duck and hide when we came near.

We also got to house some of the most darling boys attending youth conference this weekend. I'm sure Justin and Tiff can breathe a little easier once this event is over.

Cameron's Carrots & TEN years!

Cameron loves his carrots. He only likes the large sizes..no baby carrots here. It is strange that the regular sized carrots do taste a little better. Cameron is a good eater...he loves lots of vegetables and fruits. It's so nice.

We held off on celebrating our tenth anniversary today because there is so much going on with youth conference. We'll be going out on Saturday. I can't believe how quickly these last ten year have flown by...complete marital bliss. I'm hoping we'll be buying a king sized bed soon as our tenth anniversary present. Cameron would probably love to inherit our current bed, since he's always snuggling up in there with his favorite snack.

Annie's Surprise Party

Tiff threw Annie a surprise party this evening. Since it's been so busy with youth conference and girls camp Annie had no idea. We helped watch Annie in the morning while Tiff decorated. I had to keep it a secret from Mary as well, so she didn't accidentally spill the beans.

When I got to Annie's to drop her off at the arranged time I sent Mary in to grab something from Tiff, giving Tiff time to tell her and have her hide. Then I asked Annie to help me get out her bike from the back of the car and park it by the garage.I went especially slow so Tiff would have enough time. It was an exciting surprise and then a super fun party. We love our Annie Pie.

End of School Party 2014

Margaret and Steve helped us around the house this morning prepping for the big event. We ate some lunch and took them to the airport. I had Christine pick the kids up from school for me. She grabbed some last day photos and then had the kids over so I could set-up and cleaning before the good-bye school, hello summer party. I think it was a hit again. We had more people show up than last year and the little improvements we made helped accommodate more people. It was a great night.

Hellgate Jet Boats

Today we picked up Mary a little early from school so we could take a ride on Hellgate Jet Boat Excursion. It was super fun..and we did get a little wet.

Aaron's 33!

Today we celebrated Aaron's birthday with some of Margaret's homemade cinnamon rolls at breakfast and a family dinner of steak and potatoes. We had all the family over to celebrate his birthday and Mary's baptism. My mom cooked the fish they caught on Friday and it was delicious. I really love this birthday boy.

Mary's Baptism

We started the morning with a hike at the Britt Garden's. It was beautiful. Then we prepped for the baptism. I had a few assignments to get done since I usually have responsibilities for stake baptisms. Mary looked so angelic and I of course kept reflecting on her beautiful soul, hardly believing she was old enough for this important step. Steve's talk was really very beautiful as well as Aaron's confirmation. Aaron also baptized another little girl that he and the missionaries have been working with. After family photos Margaret, Steve, and our little family went out to dinner together. It was a wonderful family milestone.