I just heard some fabulous news and I am so thankful because I really needed to hear it after a day like today. My girlfriend who has been trying to get pregnant for years just told me that she is adopting a baby and she will be getting a little girl on Saturday! It's things like this that remind you how blessed we are and it reminds me how much our Heavenly Father really does love us and blesses us! Today has been a very sad day for me. My cousin passed away last week and today was her funeral. Funerals are not fun and this is the first funeral that I have been to when it's been someone so close. Funerals are always so sad, yet very spiritually uplifting and this was both of those things, but just felt so much closer to home.
My heart aches for her husband, her two kids, her mom and dad, and siblings.
It is times like this when you truly appreciate the gospel. I don't know how people get through things like this when they don't have it. And with all the horrible feelings death leaves us with, the regret, the doubt, the questions, God always finds ways to show his tender mercies....his reminders that he loves us and that he is always there, always. And I am thankful for those moments....those moments are what we hang on to to get us through another day. I feel very blessed.

On a much lighter note....

I am going on my first ever "girls trip" on Thursday with my sisters, mom and dad....and I can't wait! We are going to L.A., and we are going to shop, shop and shop (especially because my dad will be there to spoil us!) And we get to see Wicked....can't wait!....had to brag and I will brag more when I get home.....

California

we just got back from a week long trip in California- San Juan Capistrano beach house...who could ask for more?? We left last Friday and stopped in St. George, then made the rest of the drive on Saturday. The kids did "ok", but I'm sure I won't be going on any more road trips this year! We had a fun relaxing week on the beach. The kids loved the sand and the ocean but by the last day, Austin said, "I don't want to play in the sand for one more day!!"

We made it to Sea World one day, and it was super hot, but lots of fun! Austin has come a long way- he touched the sting rays and fed the dolphins- and he only cried for a minute when we got soaked by Shamu!

This is Austin and cousin Jaden practicing up on their surfing moves, getting ready for the ocean! And you'll never believe it, but austin actually surfed! (on his tummy of course and with a little bit of help) We are proud of you!! What a fun trip- fun memories!

Man I love my boys!! Austin is getting so big and I'm having those "mom moments" as fall is approaching. He will be starting preschool in September and I can't believe it! He is such a sweet boy and I can't imagine my life with out him. I am so glad that he was my first- he is the BIGGEST helper and he obeys unlike any other four year old I know. From the very beginning he as always been very sweet. He has a tender heart and I love that he loves his mom so much! (sometimes it drives me crazy...but every mom needs a "mama's boy!") Too bad they can't stay little forever...I love you my sweet Austin boy....

Five Years and counting...

So, yesterday was our "very uneventful five year anniversary". The morning started and to tell you the truth I forgot it was our day until I saw Dave hobbling out of bed and walking over to me. (I knew it must be something....because for the last few days all I've heard is "honey I need...." coming from the bed.)
and that was that. Dave was in bed with a tummy ache from surgery and I chased kids all morning. Thanks to Shalice who kept Austin for a little while so I could nap with Cade....and that was definitly the highlight!
We both promised to make next year a big one! (maybe I'll get a trip....) But even though the day was just another normal day I mentally took a moment and reflected on our crazy five years together! What a ride! I love you, Dave with all my heart! Even though you drive me crazy at times, you are my man! I am so thankful to have you in my life. You are an amazing dad- your kids love you so much and I can't wait to see you with another new baby. You are actually very gentle and sweet (for the first few weeks at least).....love you....here's to another five....or at least one. Baby steps....ha ha