My babies

On Monday morning I read this blog www.adailyscoop.blogspot.com. Check it out for a full understanding of what my week has been like. My heart aches for this family. Life is so fragile, and it is such a reminder that everyday is a gift. Ava woke up this morning at 5:30, with her diaper off, and a wet bed. I didn't mind a bit, I got her out and rocked her and appreciated that I still have her. When I walked in Easton's room and he had filled with hundreds of cups, I took a picture of his creation and was glad he was still here. When Paris needed me to shuttle her around all day, and then I had a meeting for company the second dinner was done, I was grateful I have her. This family was obviously spiritually prepared for such a challenge and an inspiration to so many. Last week my heart was aching for my mom's neighbor who lost her 20 year old byu track star to automobile accident, while the rest of the family vacationed in Lake Powell.  I recently heard this quote.  "Death is here to remind us why we are alive."

Oh Where, Oh Where has the Little Dog Gone?

Ruby, Ruby... So I tried really oh how I tried. As you may know from reading older posts, we were the parents of the year on Christmas Day. We loved this dog so much, all of us did. What we just couldn't take for one more gosh darn second, was one more time of peeing and pooping in the house. We took her to dog obedience school for one month, yep one month. We (well mostly they) missed that little puppy soooo much, and we couldn't wait to see "the trick" of always "gettin busy" outside. That little puppy could shake hands, say hello, give you five, play dead, speak, and stay, and she could do them well.... She just couldn't get the "one" trick. I kept her attached to me for two solid weeks after she got home, I didn't let her out of my sight for a second, well only the second she would run downstairs and poop in the playroom, her particular favorite spot. She is a sweetie and we loved her personality. We miss her (well they do) I found a "perfect" home for her. I advertised her on a website and got several calls from hopeful new parents right away. We have talked to her new owners several times, and they absolutely love her, and have a way better set up for her. They aren't lucky enough to have kids at home, and they have a place for a doggy door, and a fenced in backyard. Heaven for Ruby and I am having my carpets cleaned today!!!

Dance Company

Paris has so many "passions", but the one that has stuck the longest has been dance. She decided to try out for the competitive dance team at her dance studio. I hate to admit it, but when Darin and I told her she could try out, we almost hoped she wouldn't make it. We love, love all the family time we have, and we don't like to do too many things that borrow from that time. We aren't trying to raise athletes, just great well rounded, happy kids. We decided that now is probably the time for her to do something like this, so we caved and said "yes." Long story short after she felt she absolutely, positively "bombed" the audition, we learned she made Teen Company! She has been on cloud 9.

Should be Running

This is our backyard waterpark. It takes about 30 seconds and voila, the whole cul-de-sac shows up. The kids love it!
The three oldest are taking tennis, even though Savvy is still in school...
I took a photography class, and Madeline is a great subject. She loves to have her picture taken and always want to see the pictures. It helps that she is absolutely scrumptious!!!!


Paris went to Youth Conference for the very first time. She had a blast. I cried when I dropped her off and picked her up. We all missed her!
I should be running right now, but I have gotten so far behind on my blog, it's just got to be done. I am training for the St. George Marathon. Unfortunately, I was drawn in the lottery:) Actally, I am really glad and have enjoyed the long runs and time to myself, while hearing my heart beat (it's always way, way to high) As it is in life, I feel I am always running faster than I really should be! I am including pictures of our summer highlights so far. Actually, it is still not summer for all of us, which is completely kickin' my booty right now. Paris is off, but Savanna and Easton are not, until Friday. We can't wait to all be on the same schedule!