Heavenly Home

7. 8. 9

2012-02-05T12:42:00.001-08:00

Because 10 is almost here!!!

7 Months
OK, this photo shoot was supposed to take place in the ginormous pile of leaves in our backyard.... but as soon as I set Josiah in it, he freaked out...he didn't like how it felt, he didn't like how it sounded, and no manner of cajoling was going to change his mind! So into the swing he went....
and he even smiled after the leaf trauma!

8 months
Of course December birthday pics always have to be taken by the tree...my favorite on I put in the Christmas post, but this first one is just captures perefctly the sweet disposition of our little treasure!
And he is all smiles for daddy!

9 months
I just love baby pictures in their jammies! Jeepers, creepers, I just love those peepers!

I can't resist a few smoochies!

Just this week my littlest prince went into size four diapers. Sniff, sniff. It just goes too fast, doesn't it?!?

14 yrs ago....

2012-02-05T11:58:00.000-08:00

Then....
Now...
What makes the birthday boy happy?
A lot of this...

along with some of this...

What makes the birthday boy's momma kind of sad...
Last birthday:

This birthday:

Is all that growth really possible in just 365 days? I wonder what the next birthday will bring?!?!

Until then, here's to another year of enjoying the blessings that come from having this fabulous kid in our home! He's growing into a stalwart man before our very eyes, but while we've still got him we will continue to enjoy his quirky sense of humor, easy going personality, delightful big brother skills, and developing talents! We are blessed by our Christian Eli!

A post with only pictures of BRIAN!! (seriously!!!)

2012-01-22T14:40:00.001-08:00

Every now and then, Brian gets "the itch" to grow a beard...and then within weeks he can't stand the" itchi-ness" any more! This time, we had some fun documenting his various looks! So here is Before, After, and all the in-betweens!

Before....MOUNTAIN MAN

After....BABY FACE

and all the in-betweens!

THE GOATEE

THE REDNECK

THE GUIDO

THE FLAVOR SAVER

Can you believe he actually not only let me take all those goofy pictures, but even encouraged me?!?!?!? I wonder if he'll ever ask me to take his picture again...

Twas the Season of Christmas....

2012-01-04T12:33:00.000-08:00

Twas the Season of Christmas,and all through our days...

Rejoicing and happiness in so many ways!

Bright lights and laughter, family and friends...

Cookies and music, Merry wishes to send!

All celebrating that first blessed morn...

A sweet baby, our Savior, to this world He was born.

To bring joy and gladness, end sorrow and tears...
A promise of new life beyond counted years.

So no wonder the smiles, the joy, even glee...

On each face of our family we hope you will see!

May our hearts always be filled with the spirit of CHRISTmas!

Who's at the door?!?!? Merry Christmas!!

2011-12-25T10:51:00.000-08:00

Christmas Blessings to all!

For Thanksgiving we......

2011-12-21T12:51:00.000-08:00

finished the Book of Mormon (again)!

In October we realized we were pretty close, and if we made a little extra effort, we could finish by Thanksgiving! We thought that would be a great way to show our gratitude for the many many blessings the gospel has brought into our lives. So Thanksgiving night we read the last 2 1/2 chapters, and accomplished our goal! We now have read the entire Book of Mormon 7 times as a family!

And to keep with tradition, we always take the kids picture to commemorate the accomplishment, and use it to point their hearts toward being missionaries! HERE are some of our other Book of Mormon pictures. It's fun to see our family grow through the years, and realize what an important part of our lives the scriptures have been! Our home and heart are more fully turned to the Lord, and our desire to be like our Savior continues to increase. We feel God's love in our lives. We are so thankful!

Denial

2011-12-17T15:05:00.000-08:00

I just didn't want to believe it. Josiah turned 6 months old...2 months ago! I'm just now able to think it's possible. Every momma asks, "Where does the time go?" Well let me just ask,

"WHERE DOES THE TIME GO??"

I mean, seriously, I'm pregnant for like 12 years, and he was only born like a few weeks ago, right? Nope. So let's look at the bright side of things, right? What's one of my favorite things about turning 6 months? Comparing the littlest guy with the other brothers when they were 6 months!!! So let's have even more fun and make it a game, OK? Below are brothers A, B, and C. Identify each brother, and then tell me which one you think Josiah most closely resembles! Here we go!

Brother A

Brother B
Brother C

So what do you think? I think he has a lot of all those guys in him, is totally a brother, but he does remind me of one guy in particular! Oh, and look how cute these next pics are...
6 month b-day
1 day birthday
He still clutches his hands like that! Funny the unique little tricks they have from day one!

And here is a total bad momma testimonial. When Josiah turned 6 months, I took out all the brother pictures and realized baby #8 was a bit....ummmm.....behind developmentally. the little guy was so loved in arms all the time, he was my first baby not to be sitting at 6 months. Oops!!! Or roll over both directions. Another Oops. We just all snuggled and cuddled him so much, he was rarely down. Well, it was kind of tough, but we all made the effort to get our little guy up to speed, and within the month he was totally on target! I love to see each new stage, but it was particularly hard this time to say goodbye to the baby baby stage! sigh. Which makes me ask again,

"WHERE DOES THE TIME GO?!?!?!"

Maybe I'll blog his 7 and 8 month birthdays in a year or two....

One of my favorite baby milestones!!

2011-12-05T14:38:00.000-08:00

Eleven Days AgoAll that slobber can only mean one thing...(see it dripping off he cute baby chins!)

FIRST TOOTH!!! (ok, just barely cut in, his bottom left)

2 days later

SECOND TOOTH!!! (look very closely...)

1 week since first tooth, 3 days ago

Yep, they really are there!

1 week since second tooth, today

So Josiah's happy disposition has only been slightly off, but teething is never fun! What IS fun, though, is watching Little Turtle enjoy his new chompers on pizza crust, crackers, books, yogurt, socks...anything he can get into his mouth!!

Maybe for Christmas he'll get his two front (top) teeth! I bet that's really all he wants!

So cute its Scary!!

2011-11-01T07:03:00.001-07:00

So I woke up this morning to a note Brian had left before going to work....(he gets up at 4:45...I DO NOT)...asking me to send him the Halloween pics! I interpreted that as meaning I should do the blog!! I'll have to go out of order, 'cause I still need to blog Josiah's six month b-day and Rebekah's big #8 b-day, but maybe this'll motivate me! It'll make me crazy not to have things in chronological order!!! Anyways, this blog is for you, Honey-Love!

By the time Halloween night actually comes, we've been in and out of our costumes at least 5 times! These pics are a mix from all different times this past week!

So how cute are this lil' punkin' and the black cat?
Oh, wait, the cat needs whiskers...(Ok, really I just couldn't choose which picture was cuter, so I had to post both!)
And some more classic Halloween cuties!
And the revival of old costumes that you just love so much you have to wear again!
Here's where I would post Christian and Jonah....but they somehow fulfilled their goal to escape the picture taking horror! Don't worry, they will be dealt with severely!!

So on to our superhero! I love this one! And now my favorite from "The Big Night"!

I made this "Little Bo Peep" costume for Kamberlynne...and now we've had all combinations of Peep and sheep....so adorable! (And I just love the kool-aid face on Ellie....ahhhh, childhood!)

And one last pic for my Lovie...

Thanks to him, I have one less blog to be behind on!!!

She's BACK!!

2011-10-19T12:07:00.001-07:00

Many of you know the story.

(Yes, I know this picture is out of focus. It's kind of symbolic.)

For those of you who don't know the story, I'll sum up.

We've got a pretty awesome girl in our family. I'd even say she is an inspiration. She knows what she believes, and the kind of person she wants to be. And she knows always doing what is right doesn't mean things always turn out right at the end of the day...or the softball season. Last year Kamberlynne's travel softball coaches decided that since Kamberlynne absolutely totally and completely does not play sports on Sunday, she would need to find another team. Yes, she shared the starting pitcher position with only one other girl. Yes, she is a talented athlete. Yes, she played with that team for three years. Yes, they originally invited her to play knowing she didn't play on Sundays. Yes, they ultimately left the decision up to her. Yes, she totally loves softball. So what did she tell them?

She told them she loves God more.

Like I said, she's pretty awesome.

And what happened? She went this summer season without playing. The whole situation was really hard, But God "works all things for good to them that love Him". He really does. A couple of weeks ago, Kamberlynne stepped back on the mound for the first time in a year, playing for a team that is very very happy to have her, and very very supportive of her Sunday worship decision.

It's been a year, but her 4-0 pitching record and homerun 1st game back make it hard to tell!

The Thunder are lucky to have her on their team, but we are luckier to have such an amazing girl in our home!
Welcome Home, Loo!

Hayrides and Pumpkins and Pictures, Oh MY!

2011-10-07T13:50:00.000-07:00

Some of our most favorite people are homeschoolers, too! We welcomed in Fall together on a fabulous field trip...hooray!

Sometimes the pictures just say it all!!!

Yep, I'm Adorable!

2011-09-26T17:35:00.000-07:00

It's my five month birthday photo shoot!!!

I'm getting pretty good at this! Actually, I smile all the time...momma caught this one on the first try!

Momma LOVES my chubby leggies!!! She tickles me and kisses me and squeezes me! Actually, it's kind of embarrassing, but she just loves my thigh and ankle rolls! And all this comes just from my milk! Momma says all the other kids started eating cereal and food by now, but I just love snuggling with my momma and my bottle! Maybe next month I'll try something new!

Sister insisted I have some pictures without my hat!

As for my usual super pleasant disposition, that pretty much hasn't changed. One thing has been bugging me, though. Ok, two. Can you see them?

How about now?

They haven't broken through, yet. I wish they would. Momma wishes they would. Daddy wishes they would. Brothers wish they would. Ok, everybody wishes they would! This is how I feel about teething:

But on a happier note, here is me live action trying to learn how to belly laugh. I talk talk talk and sing sing sing, but I just haven't figured out how to laugh yet. I'm a good tryer, though!

It's ok if you think I'm the cutest Josiah ever. Momma tells me that all the time!

2011-09-14T11:57:00.000-07:00

Harford County---Celebrating Chesapeake Bay and Maritime Heritage

Some of Harford County's most beautiful places to visit also highlight the unique and lasting attribute that water brings to the county I call home.

Gun Powder State Park

This is one of the greatest places to enjoy water in Harford county if you want to spend the day at the beach. Not only do you get to swim, but you can also go kayaking, fishing, and picnic-ing. You can also go hiking. though I've never been hiking here, my brother has, and he liked it alot!

Kilgore Falls

As you can see, this is a real waterfall! It's such a beautiful area, it was even featured in the Disney movie "Tuck Everlasting". You can hike around the falls, and some people even jump off the top! I don't feel like trying it, but I do love jumping off the smaller rocks!

Havre de Grace Maritime Museum

There's not only fun outings, but alot of historic water places to visit. At the Maritime Museum you can find out about the unique history of waterman in our area. You can also learn about John Smith, the famous explorer, and his exploration of Maryland and the Chesapeake Bay. There is also a boat building school, which is pretty cool.

The Skipjack Martha Lewis

This is one of the most unique museums in Harford County because it is the only one that floats!!! I've never been, but I sure would like to! This would be a great way to experience firsthand what it would have been like to be a Chesapeake waterman! The Marth Lewis offers public and private tours and cruises depending on the season.

These are only some of the unique places we are able to enjoy here in Harford that highlights water and its history in our county!

Jonah Washburn
Citizenship in Your Community

16 years down.....

2011-09-03T10:55:00.000-07:00

August 11, 1995

August 11, 2011

Eternity to go!!!

Four month smiles and fun!

2011-09-02T10:51:00.000-07:00

Totally
Completely
Undeniably
In love With this little guy!!

Over the past month, Josiah has found his fingers, voice, and tongue! Get a load of this!

So super cute, huh?

And this one!

And one more for laughs!! (ours, not his)

These are a great representation of Josiah's personality! He is THE MOST pleasant baby I have ever met, and is just a complete little armful of love! Four months later, and we are still thanking the heavens for this wonderful blessing of joy in our home! Every night before I lay him to bed, I whisper into his fuzzy baby hair "Thank you for coming, Josiah. We sure needed you!"

Especially me.

Lights, Camera,...Music Man!

2011-08-31T10:23:00.000-07:00

2011 Summer Camp #2....
Credits:
Catherine, Music Director
Kamberlynne, Mrs. Paroo
Christian, Marcellus
Jonah and Indy, School board (quartet)
Rebekah, Amaryllis
Briella (we were all shocked and amazed), band kid in last scene

Wait till you hear Rebekah's song!

Here she is with her "Winthrop"!

And now you might want some popcorn for the video clips!!
"If you don't mind me saying so", featuring Kamberlynne

"Goodnight my Someone" reprise, featuring Bekah (if you only watch one, this should be it!!!)

"Shipoopi", featuring Christian vocally, but keep your eyes out for dancing with Kamberlynne right after Christian sings, then Jonah with the girl in yellow, and Indy right beside him!

"Goodnight ladies" featuring Jonah and Indy

18 seconds of Briella....she's the one holding the flag and diverting her eyes! But she did it!!!!

5 weeks of camp this summer, plus Catherine, Kamberlynne and Christian leaped into the community big time with a show at the local Community College! "Bye Bye Birdie" opens for 6 performances in just over a week! Real Lights, Dressing Rooms, Back Stage, and someone besides Catherine running the audio!! Hooray! Hopefully we'll have some clips of that one, but for now, Music Man is in the books!!!

Blogging for the week...one post at a time!

2011-08-29T19:00:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I'm behind. But guess what?!? I did 5 posts today, and figured out how to schedule them to post every couple of days! You know what that means? You won't get stuck reading all the catching up info at one time! Just check back every couple of days, and you'll see new smiles and new info for a whole week! So here we go!

Briella spent a lot of time tagging along in theatre camps this summer, so she and I went out on a mommy daughter date all by ourselves! Ellie got to be the center of attention, and we both loved it! I have to admit, I did have another motive as well. For those of you who know us well, you know we have a secret code name for Briella. Helen. As in Helen Keller. For those of you who know Ellie well, you know exactly why! With as much as she has to say at home and around people she knows, this darling girl is very very VERY timid around strangers. She gets this glazed over look in her eyes, becomes totally devoid of any emotion, is nearly completely unresponsive and barely talks to us. And until recently, will absolutely NOT talk to anyone she doesn't know. The good news is, though, after 5 weeks of theatre camp, she has started to talk to a very few...which is way better than it was! So on our little date, I took Briella out to breakfast in hopes that we could have a little chat about how sometimes we DO need to talk to strangers, like when there is an emergency or when you order food at a restaurant! So after our chat, Briella picked out her breakfast and we practiced her talking to the waiter and ordering. Things were going well... until the waiter came. And then there was Helen. Blank stare. Completely unresponsive. So I ordered for her. And I took a deep breath. And we chatted again. This time we talked about using our words to show good manners and appreciation. We practiced saying thank you for when the waiter would bring our food back, and I crossed my fingers and said a little prayer. Well, friends, it worked! It wasn't perfect, there wasn't eye contact, and for a minute I didn't know if there would be any words, either, but Ellie murmered an unmistakable "thank you for my food" to the waiter! She was so proud of herself-- and so was I!

The chocolate milk was worth it!!! Great job, Briella!

After our breakfast victory, Ellie chose feeding the ducks as our activity! It was a lovely day, and I couldn't help but capture the memories!

And one with momma!

What a super fun outing with my super big girl! I'm grateful in so many ways for this darling, and love to see her blossom!

As much as we love this girl just as she is, "Helen" included, it is a joy to help and see her grow and develop the wonderful attributes God blessed her with! One day we won't even be able to remember her over the top shyness in public...and we probably won't even believe that she was ever "Helen" at all!

Pretty as a Picture!

2011-07-29T16:40:00.000-07:00

ummmm.....I mean handsome!

Josiah's 3 month birthday photo shoot...

The Good.

(just so sweet)

(those little fingers...*sigh*)

(oh, those toesies)

The Bad.

(nice slobber)

(wat'cha been drinkin, buddy?)

(that's just kinda creepy)

And the Simply Adorable!

That about says it!

(These pics were taken on our New York Trip at the Johnson Farm near Palmyra. I really am going to blog the trip...I am...sometime...soon!)

All American Smiles!

2011-07-22T10:06:00.001-07:00

We pledge allegiance

to the flag

of the United States of America.
And to the republic,
for which it stands,

one nation, under God,
indivisible,

with liberty and justice
for all!

Let Freedom Ring!

July 4th, 2011

I blinked.........

2011-07-19T16:58:00.000-07:00

and weeks had flown by!

(Disclaimer...this really should be broken up into 5 different blogs that would not only have darling pictures, but cute and clever narrative as well. Sometimes you gotta go for speed blogging, though, so strap on your seat belt!)

Our Kamberlynnie-Loo-Loo celebrated her 15th birthday!

She is the very best big sister of all time, and in appreciation, all the brothers cooked her breakfast fit for a princess...including a crown fashioned by the sisters!

After shopping with friends, we took Loo for ice-cream at her favorite little shop, then home for....a "heart attack"! While she was shopping, the kids and I cut out a bazillion hearts and decorated her room with them, along with fancy gold wrapped candy!
And in keeping with tradition, Kamberlynne chose....

Birthday Pie! This one was a scrumptious chocolate chip cookie pie that we shared with friends while we played games and enjoyed the birthday girl! The day was almost as great as she is!
(Funny insider info...take a look at what Kamberlynne is wearing in every pic...different each time! Yep, typical teenage girl...she goes through multiple outfits daily!!!)

Next...
Father's Day Fun! For those of you kept in suspense, here is this year's annual t-shirt!

Every year, Brian's new t-shirt is his favorite gift! And even if I think they are a little geek-y, I still think it is adorable that he wears them with such joy!

Not one of the best pictures, but certainly one of the best Grandpa's! We are blessed to have our these wonderful men in our lives. I just wish my own dad was around, too!

And in the meantime....

Look at how Josiah's smile (and CHIN) has grown!

Just the sweetest little prince!!

Moving on...to Jonah's Birthday!

Jonah's birthday happened to land on the same day as the Lafferty (maternal side of Brian's family) reunion! So along with most of those fun cousins came a day of swimming, picnic-ing, and...

count 'em, TWELVE candles! Yep, a super special birthday year for this wonderful boy who now is a Deacon in the priesthood service of God!

We are so loving this great kid! How wonderful to see his body, mind, and spirit grow!

To end this post, take a quick look at Brian and my very very quick trip to Montana! We got off the plane in Missoula, and less than 36 hours later, were back on it! But in between, we made forward motion on our dream to one day move here.

It is lovely to have a dream! It will be even lovelier when it comes true!

Believe it or not, ALL of this happened, Kamberlynne's birthday all the way through our trip, during our three week theatre camp! And it's not over yet...

See what I mean about "blinking"?

In case you're wondering...

2011-06-17T18:05:00.000-07:00

Like the shirt says....

...at two months old! (And he keeps getting cuter every day!)

Official two month stats: 11 lbs 5 ounces, 23 1/4 inches long, size 2 diapers, and totally adorable!

Happy two month birthday, Josiah!

Next Food Network Star...

2011-06-12T18:07:00.000-07:00

Christian's "Everything" Sandwich

To create this fabulous mouthful you will need:

Peanut Butter
Jelly
1 Banana, sliced
Mayonnaise
Turkey
Cheese
1 Hot Dog, sliced
Ketchup
2 pieces of bread

Layer all ingredients between bread and open wide!

So, next food network star??? Ummmmmmm....probably not! Teenage boy who has officially moved into the "if it's edible, give me some, and make sure its a LOT"....totally! Christian is hungry non-stop, and if this is a foreshadowing of things to come, when the other two boys get to the "everything sandwich" appetite stage, we are going to be in big trouble!

Blessings!!

2011-06-07T12:06:00.000-07:00

Those lovely days when our sweet babies are blessed are always some of the most special moments that I carry in my heart! This past Sunday, Josiah received his blessing under the hands of his Daddy, and other dear family and friends. It was just perfect.

Josiah was blessed with some lovely gifts including the heart of a peacemaker, the ability to commune with angels throughout his life, and a special sense of compassion that would allow him to bring a healing influence to those around him and bless many.

He already has.

"Josiah" means "the Lord sends healing". King Josiah in the Old Testament brought a spiritual revival to his people after a time of hardship and exhausted faith. Under his influence, the people returned to the Lord with greater love and dedication. Our own little Josiah is such a gift of healing from our Heavenly Father for our family, and the renewal of hope and faith has been nothing short of a miracle from the loving hands of divinity. We are so grateful. So very very grateful.

Isn't it amazing how adding another child to the family increases your love for each of the others? We've tried to figure out how to explain that to our darlings, but have finally decided there just aren't words!

So we'll just keep offering up prayers of thanks and praise. And so much love.

Grab some popcorn...

2011-05-26T11:00:00.000-07:00

...for our Spring Recital!

Some semesters I have had up to 15 students myself, and I've always loved doing recitals! For the past year and a half or so, I've only been able to keep up lessons with my own bunch...so now Kamberlynne is teacher of a few others. Well, we got together with another talented guy who has some students, and between his students, Kamberlynne's students, and my students...I mean children (!)...we had a great recital with 14 participants! Below are my "fantastic five"!

Rebekah performing "Castle on a Cloud" from Les Mis!

Indy begins this next clip with his "Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring", and hits it perfectly...on the repeat! I am impressed with how easily he travels across the nearly two octaves for the melody in the right hand!

Then Jonah joins Indy for their Great Balls of Fire" duet!

Jonah closes out this clip with his traditional Spanish dance, "The Maleguena"!

Christian's voice is developing nicely as we try and keep up with the changes! I love that he chose a vocal piece as well as a piano piece this time! Beginning with "The Impossible Dream", then playing "The Blue Danube" (again, thank goodness for repeats so you can make a few adjustments!)

Kamberlynne closes out your viewing pleasure with a contemporary piece that we all love to hear her play here at home! She continues to impress us all with her lovely piano talent, and would rather sit down and play for hours a day than do just about anything else! Here is John Schmidt's "Waterfall"!

There you go! As all of these cuties continue to develop these wonderful gifts, the greatest blessing of all is seeing them cultivate a love of music, and having those sweet sounds fill our home on a daily basis! Music has been such a blessing to my life, my hope is my own darlings will find the same joy and happiness it has brought to my own life throughout each day of their own!

(Wow...two posts in one day! I can't believe it!)

One Month!

2011-05-26T06:05:00.000-07:00

(Momma is still trying to keep up with sleep vs blogging...but since today is my 6 week birthday, she thought she better get this post up!)

See how I've grown!

One Day....
One Month...
See how my pants are big and baggy when I was brand new?!?!? Now they barely fit! Momma loves how my belly is practically hanging out of my shirt now! It took a little while for me to grow, I actually got teenier first...I was down to 5 lbs 11 oz when I was 2 weeks old! Silly me, it took me a little while to figure out that eating and pooing thing! But now I am just over 8lbs...I gained 3 lbs in 2 weeks!!!! I graduated to a size 1 diaper today(I was still in newborn!), and my preemie homecoming outfit was retired after this photo shoot! Earth life is great! My family adores me and thinks I'm the cutest little guy in the world! They are pretty smart, don't you think?!?!?

Guess who's four??????

2011-05-15T18:43:00.000-07:00

I just can't believe it!

Briella's birthday was extra special this year.....it fell on Mother's Day!!! It was too sweet remembering the miraculous way this darling came to us, and perfect for me to celebrate with her! I picked cheesecake after lunch for my treat, and Briella picked...

Chocolate Peanut Butter Reese's Cup Cake for her treat!!!!

But the fun didn't stop there!

A few days later "Princess Briella" entertained some of her royal friends for a fun afternoon of dancing,
cupcake decorating, and princess accessorizing!

The only thing sweeter than all the sugar on that cupcake is the princess who licked it all off!!!! (And left the rest of the cupcake behind, of course!)

Happy Birthday sticky sweet super special Princess! Your smiles and love fill our hearts, and we are so so blessed to have you in our forever family!

2011-05-15T17:58:00.000-07:00

Motherhood...

...is near to divinity. It is the highest, holiest service to be assumed by mankind. It places her who honors its holy calling and service next to the angels.

--The First Presidency of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints

My Stripling Warriors

I surely know that there is no role in life more essential and more eternal than that of motherhood.--Elder Russell M. Ballard

My Fair Daughters

One cannot forget mother and remember God. One cannot remember mother and forget God. Why? Because these two sacred persons, God and mother, partners in creation, in love, in sacrifice, in service, are as one.

--Thomas S. Monson

My Angel

Parents who have surrendered the sweetest and smallest flowers from the family's garden need to remember our Heavenly Father. He has promised a special reward to those who now suffer in silence, who spend long days and longer nights through their trying times of bereavement. Our Creator has promised glory. He said, 'For after much tribulation come the blessings. Wherefore the day cometh that ye shall be crowned with much glory; the hour is not yet, but nigh at hand.' (D&C 58:4) That promised glory includes the blessing of reunion with each child who has left the family circle to help surviving members of the family to draw nearer to God. Those children still live and are a heritage to the Lord." Russell M. Nelson

My Joy

As mothers in Israel, we are the Lord’s secret weapon. Our influence comes from a divine endowment that has been in place from the beginning. In the pre-mortal world, when our Father described our role, I wonder if we didn’t stand in wide-eyed wonder that He would bless us with a sacred trust so central to His plan and that He would endow us with gifts so vital to the loving and leading of His children. I wonder if we shouted for joy at least in part because of the ennobling stature He gave us in His kingdom. The world won’t tell you that, but the Spirit will.

-- Sheri Dew

My heart is still shouting for joy......

Two more weeks with "Turtle"!!!!!

2011-05-09T11:13:00.000-07:00

Aka "Little Prince", and "Little Joe" (always sung...from the Little Joe Veggie Tales movie), but mostly his little nick name is "Turtle"!

Ummmmmmm...let me explain.
When I was about 5 months pregnant Briella found a little pacifier attacher thingy that was a plush turtle. Within days, she began calling the baby "Turtle", and somehow, it stuck. And it was just so cute, we kind of got carried away.

The nursery, which was lady bugs for Briella, got transformed rather easily to Ladybugs and turtles!

We made blankets and burpers and hats and bought stuffed turtles....

And searched for turtle clothes....and even had others gift us not only turtle clothes, but turtle pillows, books and more!
Remember his homecoming outfit...

A closer look...

Yep, turtles!

So here is "Turtle's" 2 week birthday shoot!!

Don't let that belly full of milk trick you....at his 2 week weight, he still was just below 7 lbs! And of course, momma taking all those pictures to get just the right ones is exhausting!!!

What a darling little turtle!

Now by his 3 week birthday, he had made it to just over 7 lbs!!! (my favorite homemade blanket and hat!)

And my favorite 3 week pic...all worn out again!

Just so precious!

So what do we all do between weekly birthday shoots??? Well.....

That's why I'm a little behind on blogging!!!! But oh, so worth it! We are all loving finally having him here, and even the brothers will let me pose them for pictures with the littlest Washburn guy! Wait till you see the Mother's Day post....

Here's a sneak peak!

Who knew a turtle could be so adorable?!?!?!?

Easter Blessings

2011-04-30T17:12:00.001-07:00

Easter week was spent holding our new baby and marveling at the wonder of new life! Bringing Josiah home just in time to celebrate the life, mission, sacrifice, and resurrection of the Savior
made my favorite holiday even more memorable. Because I spent most of the week on the couch snuggling our little bundle of joy, the children took over our Easter week festivities.

Each one studied and prepared one of the daily devotionals centered around the Savior's last week of mortality.

For our traditional Passover Supper, the children did all the prep work, and we enjoyed a lovely evening. This is probably their favorite night of the festivities. Eating the same foods and reading the very same scriptures that Jesus would have read for the last Passover,and understanding how the entire ritual points to the Savior....it's just amazing, and the kids love it.

What they would rather NOT do, though, is pose for Easter Morning pictures! We made it through, and now have our first family shot with baby Josiah!

Because he was only 11 days old, we snuck into the back of church for the first hour, then the rest of the family stayed while I snuck home with the baby! I just had to go and raise my voice in praise and song "Christ the Lord is Risen Today!"

Before the day was out, we went to visit Mariah's special spot. The glory of Easter has even more personal meaning for each of us as we visit the place where the precious body of our angel baby lies in wait for her own resurrection. I hope we have pictures in heaven, because one day I will have a picture of all my children together. For now, this will have to do.

What a glorious promise we have, all because of Jesus. What a great hope we hold, all because of Jesus. We continue to shed tears of both peace and pain for our sleeping angel, but rejoice in the gift and joy that Easter holds, all because of Jesus.

"Therefore, let us glory, yea, we will glory in the Lord; yea, we will rejoice, for our joy is full; yea, we will praise our God forever. Behold, who can glory too much in the Lord? Yea, who can say too much of his great power, and of his mercy, and of his long-suffering towards the children of men? Behold, I say unto you, I cannot say the smallest part which I feel."

Alma 26:16

One week already?!?!?!?

2011-04-24T08:17:00.000-07:00

Are you sure?!?!?!

Still whispering prayers of gratitude while snuggling this precious blessing.

Introducing...

2011-04-19T07:51:00.000-07:00

Josiah Thayer Washburn

"Weeping may endure for a night. But joy comes in the morning." Psalm 30:5

Thursday, April 14
6:52 am
7 lbs, 21 inches

First minutes...

First poses...

First looks....
First time all dressed up...

and all packed up...
and ready for home!!!

First loves with the sisters...

and some more with the brothers...

and with everyone!

After so many prayers and so much faith, by so many people for such a long time, how lovely it is to have so many smiles!

We continue to rejoice, and are ever mindful of the loving Father and giver of good gifts who has filled our arms and hearts with a precious child of His to adore.

We are blessed beyond measure!

Even Sweeter!

2011-04-08T10:03:00.001-07:00

Here's a crazy statistic. 99 weeks. That is how long I have been pregnant and hoping and praying to hold and love and raise up and adore a homemade baby. Not fun.

The miracle. We still got to bring home and hold and love and raise up and adore this precious precious daughter. Just like our homemade babies that didn't come home, this darling is ours forever.
Throughout the last nearly four years, we have only felt immense love and gratitude for the many miracles that brought Briella to us. Some wonder if you can actually love adopted children as much as biological kids. Absolutley. Totally. Completely. And if you want to know the real truth, this girl might have an extra corner of my heart full of love for her because of the providential way she came.

And now, over the last few months, even more of my heart belongs to her. I just can't even imagine failed pregnancy after failed pregnancy after failed pregnancy for years and years without the joy holding this one in my arms and heart has brought. She is an even greater blessing, an even greater miracle, an even greater gift! I have realized that one of the many reasons the Lord sent her to us was to be a source of healing when the time came that we needed it. He is so good. And though Ellie keeps us and our parenting techniques our toes, still would rather sleep on our floor in a sleeping bag than in her own bed, and would wear her bathing suit every day of the week, how blessed we are to know and love and have her forever!

And we are exercising every bit of faith that next week she will finally be able to enjoy her role as Big Sister!!!

It's showtime!!!!!

2011-03-31T18:12:00.000-07:00

OK, we didn't drop off the planet...we finished our show! Rodgers and Hammerstien's "Cinderella" was a big success, and we are all thrilled to be back on regular sleep schedules! But, oh, how worth it!

Six of the Washburns lit up the stage....but none were more excited than Bekah, who made her premier main stage debut as a village girl

and a mouse who got turned into a horse!
Christian also doubled as the Herald
and a guest at the ball! All the boys had some pretty impressive waltzing going on!
Jonah doubled as a court guard
and a ball guest.
Indy doubled the same as Jonah, guard
and impressive dancer!
Kamberlynne had a single role, but played it up beautifully as one of Cinderella's stepsisters! I think her favorite part was wearing a size 22 fat suit (wait till you see the video!)
And finally, momma was the music director, and ran all the audio equipment....and was tired!
And now for all you big fans (Nana), grab some popcorn and enjoy a few videos!

Here is the opener...Christian soloing in his new lower voice, Jonah and Indy to his right, Kamberlynne center in the big fat suit and orange skirt....and watch for Bekah's one line "Maisy"...she's adorable!

Here Rebekah (the mouse on the far left) is transformed into a horse....

Now check out Jonah and Indy "Dancing like the Stars". They are center stage...oh, and Kamberlynne comes in to "dance" with the Prince!

Another ball scene....hard to see, but Jonah is just behind Cinderella with his partner, and they ROCK!

Now the "Stepsister's Lament".....brought big laughs! Kamberlynne's big take the stage moment!

And at last, the finale....whole ensemble, and a very nice harmony note at the end, even if I do say so myself!!!!

So, there you have it! Now our next big debut will be the new baby....13 days and counting!

Ultimate Girls Night!

2011-03-06T18:05:00.000-08:00

Fabulous dinner...

Fabulous fabulous show....

With one fabulous fabulous FABULOUS girl!

I love being the momma!

Yep, a night like that makes it to the top of the girls night "All-time Greats"!

Just for laughs!

2011-02-27T15:04:00.000-08:00

It's a scientific fact that you don't talk about dieting to a pregnant woman...especially when she is in the last trimester, and forgot what she really is supposed to look like. Well, Brian is recovering from a knee injury, is just about back to full speed, and is super psyched about taking off the pounds he put on while his knee was on the blitz. I took it pretty well... for a while. Until he got a little more specific. And I quote,

"I just wish I could get rid of this stuff in the middle", he says.

OK. That's enough. Compared to MY middle, buddy, you're doin' just fine. So Stop it. Seriously.

I actually told him that...and even though I was kind of smiling, he got it, because the next day he came home with this to show me....

1 minute and 46 seconds of pure truth. And funny. Very. Very. Funny.

So the only thing that could be better would be a new one entitled "Things you don't say to your PREGNANT wife!

Come on. Click the video. It's worth every second!

Rainbows

2011-02-20T15:41:00.000-08:00

As much as we love the sunshine, sometimes God let's it rain. And it rains, and it rains, and it rains. Really really hard. Its such a big storm, you end up losing power, and you try and function off the meager lights of a few candles. The wind seems to be ripping apart your house, and the thought enters and re-enters your mind that you just might not make it through this one, and you are certainly going to sustain some damage. You wish it would end.

And then, there is a slow change as the sky lightens up a bit and there are small breaks in the clouds. You see it. Even while it is still raining, the sky is brightened and beautified by the loveliest of rainbows. As you enjoy the wonder of it, a deeper realization stirs your spirit. You understand that the beauty of a rainbow does not negate the ravages of the storm. When a rainbow appears, it doesn't mean the storm never happened or that you are not still dealing with its aftermath. What it means is that something beautiful and full of light has appeared in the midst of the darkness and clouds. Storm clouds may still hover, there will certainly be more rainy days, but the appearance of the rainbow provides a counter balance of beauty, color, and a sense of promise. Something stirs within your heart that seems to have barely survived. You feel it like you haven't since the storm first hit. It is hope.

In grieving circles, babies born to families after the loss of a child are often referred to as "Rainbow Babies". We are counting down the weeks, and praying with all of our hearts to bring our "rainbow baby" home. The hope and gift of him has brought healing and peace in a way that nothing else has since we said hello and goodbye to Mariah. But it is also a hard battle between faith and fear. I am quoting to myself daily, sometimes hourly, 2 Timothy 1:7: " For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind." Next week we begin weekly stress tests and ultrasounds to keep a close eye on this little one. Whatever extra prayers and thoughts you may have in your home, would you please remember us? Especially me....I am so in need of "a sound mind". Eight weeks still seems so very very far away.

I can't imagine having come this long through the storm, and still not having a rainbow.
"Trust in the Lord with all thine heart"....

Here comes the sun....

2011-02-18T18:11:00.001-08:00

Today.
Outside.
71 degrees.
In the middle of February.

With piles of snow still on the ground.

Just weird.
Lovely.
But weird.
But did I mention how very lovely?

Forecast is calling for snow on Sunday.
Figures.

Just too cute!!!

2011-01-30T17:58:00.000-08:00

Daddy and Kamberlynne have been teaching Briella "I Love You" in sign language. The other day she did this in reply:

"Ummmm...what does that mean?", we ask.

"I love you MORE!"

"OH, of course!!!"

Isn't that the cutest?

It's the Birthday Boy.....ummmm....I mean TEENAGER!!!

2011-01-25T14:24:00.000-08:00

And, yeah, how happy do you think he is about it?!?!?!?

We spent Christian's 13th B-day doing all kinds of typical teen-agery things....

Hangin' out at the local bowling alley...

with lots of really cool people!

But still taking time with the little guys!

Then on to devouring lots of pizza....

and throwing in a game of pool! (Thanks to our neighbors for the quick set up and portable pool table! FUN!)

And here's a really fun growing up stat....

We told Kamberlynne last year on Christian's birthday she had one year left before he caught her...I think he even has her by an inch or so!! But don't worry....

I've still got him...for one more year--or at least a few months!
And with all that big guy size comes....

the ginormous quadruple layer "make it as much chocolate as you can, Mom" cake! (Yep, he takes after his momma!)

Christian's wish came true, he got to stay up way past bedtime playing his new Settlers of Cataan game!

So here's to 13 years with 1 amazing kid! Having Christian bless our home means always being able to find the sunshine in cloudy days, still being able to hang with the little guys no matter how big you get, knowing way too much about some of the grosser creatures on our planet, and hearing some of the finer movie lines delivered in spot-on imitation! But more than that, we get to love and nurture, inspire and be inspired by a tender-hearted and compassionate boy who is turning into a mighty warrior for the Lord right before our eyes!

And oh, yeah...now we have two of these crazy teenegers in our home! Aren't we blessed?!?!?

You better believe it!

Just give us 5 inches!!!

2011-01-16T14:43:00.000-08:00

OK, we'll make do with 4...

From the top.

Kamberlynne just hangin' on!

Christian showin' us his surfer moves.

Jonah doing the 360 spin!

Indy planning the perfect run!

Bekah racing the clock!

And Briella...ummm....SMILING!!!

More smiles... (we had about 25 of our friends on the slopes with us!)

The Tricksters...

The penguin.

The Daredevil.

The evidence...

Momma was really there!!!

Well, dear ones, gone are the days when it took a half hour to pack and zip all those little ones into the snowsuits, pry on the boots, find the mittens, find the mittens again, zip them again,...you know the drill...just to have them be out in the snow for 15 minutes before crying that they were all done!!!! And then wanting to do it all again an hour later! Nope, not anymore! Even Ellie was up for a good couple hours of frosty fun! Of course, ending it all with hot chocolate and donuts even sweetens the memories!

And makes us wish for just 4 more inches.....!

One last smile....

Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow!

There's No Place Like Home.....

2011-01-09T14:54:00.000-08:00

For the Holidays!

Here's a quick peek at our Christmas fun!

Annual family trip to see the temple lights!

Along with some fun friends!

Ice-skating field trip!!!

Making and sharing lots of treats!

This should be a picture of Briella with Santa....but she ran out of the room too fast!!! (Hey, at least she went INTO the room this year!) There is a smile behind that blanket!

Lots and LOTS of holiday music!

Sorry, Nana, this is our only recital pic! Momma was too busy running the show! All of the Washburn cuties did a great job, though!

Christmas Eve devotional...may we never forget the real "Reason for the Season"! Even more fun with friends!

Our Christmas Angel.

Bright-eyed and bushy tailed Christmas morning!

Some favorite presents!

Momma and daddy's favorite gifts of all time!

Here's to another year of enjoying our greatest gifts, growing in love and gratitude, and enjoying the true spirit of Christmas in our hearts and homes each and every day!

Who's at the door?!?!?!?

2010-12-25T08:44:00.000-08:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!

All I want for Christmas is.....

2010-12-22T14:40:00.000-08:00

Ok, just one front tooth! (The other one is loose, but I don't think it's going to make it in 3 days!)

Happy Angel Day, Darling Mariah

2010-12-14T11:02:00.000-08:00

To Our Dear Sweet Angel Baby,

We are so happy you are part of our forever family! Since we miss you so much, it is still easy to be sad, but we wanted to spend your special day celebrating that we all will be together again! One day, there will be no more tears, sorrow, or grief! We will all hold you in our arms again, and there will be so much joy, we won't even think of the pain of our now empty arms and hurting hearts!

Momma knew she better cry out all the sadness of the year before we got to our celebration day, so she could make more room for all the hopeful and happy feelings that are inside of her, too! So a few days before your Angel day, she rocked your special blankie one more time in the nursery before packing away all the girlie things that had been waiting for you to come. There were so many sweet clothes that your sisters had worn, so many bows and little shoes for you, and so many dreams that we put into boxes. And momma let out all the tears. You did have a few outfits we had gotten just for you, brand new and everything. Momma knew some other sweet girls should have them, so we gave them away. Except for your Christmas dress. Momma rocked it in your blanket, kissed it, and put it away in your special box. And then she ate chocolate.

Auntie Amber came and we made you a special Angel Wreathe. Pink with bows. We took it to your special place and talked about what a special daughter of God you are. Isn't it pretty? I bet you love it as much as Momma.

And then our celebration day! Daddy took off work, and we spent the whole day together! And all of us were so full of love and happy all day! We know so many people were praying for us, that the power and love of God just encircled us. It was so peaceful and special and sacred. And it kept getting better and better! When we went to see your special place, we were surprised to find that others had already been there, sharing tokens of love and expressions of support. It was amazing.

We took balloons to send kisses and messages to heaven for you! We are sure you got them!

We stood together around your special place, and all smiled, because we know we will be together again.

We left you lots of roses. White ones, like the first time you had roses. One from every Aunt, Uncle, Cousin, Brother, Sister, Grandma and Grandpa. Just like the first time. And now you have all of your angels for the whole year, too. Your special place looks beautiful. It was hard to leave. It always is.

But guess what we did after we left? We went to the bouncy place we love so much, and we had pizza, too! When we got home, there were more treats and cards and love waiting for us on the front porch! Heavenly Father was reminding us of all the people He sent to love and care for us! God is so good! And somehow, we made it through the first year. And even though it has been so hard so many days, today it was not. It was lovely. It was a gift. It was a miracle. It was beauty for ashes. Again.

Happy Angel Day, Sweet Mariah Grace. We miss you so much, and love you even more. We will be together again. Until then, we will walk in faith, praise and love and serve the Lord, and keep you forever in our hearts. Forever and ever.

Some Ghosts of Christmases Past!!!

2010-12-07T11:14:00.000-08:00

Before digital cameras and blogs....

Kamberlynne 1997

And then there were two. 1998

And three. 1999

Yep, then four! 2001

Here's five..2004 (I think?!?!)( Yahoo for digital cameras!)

And up to six. 2007.

These guys look familiar! 2008

Was that just last year!?!?!?

Now those sweet faces from years gone by spark some more Christmas Spirit in my heart!

Ok, Friends, now I want to see some of YOUR Ghosts of Christmases Past!

Singing Thanks and Praise....

2010-11-24T10:34:00.000-08:00

This past week, Kamberlynne and I had the opportunity to be a part of the NATIONAL BIBLE ASSOCIATION Interdenominational Concert of Praise!

We were also joined by world renowned violinist Jenny Oaks-Baker, who was absolutely magnificent. She will be performing at the LDS Visitors Center December 13, and I can't wait to take the whole family!

We sang in the Nations First Cathedral, the Baltimore Basilica of the Assumption, with choirs of other Christian Faiths as we celebrated our mutual love for God's Word. The Basilica is pretty amazing (it just so happens the Brian's Company did the renovations on it a few years back!), and the acoustics are every bit as wonderful as any I've ever sung at, including the LDS Tabernacle on Temple Square! Our little choir of 30 sounded at least twice as big!

(Can you find us?!?!?)

The piece here was one of our two selections "Come Unto Christ" My favorite part is about 2 minutes in....so wait for it!

"Come unto Christ, ye sorrowful and frail. Seek this Jesus, whose comfort cannot fail.
Seek this Jesus, and triumph in His might. Come unto Christ, Come unto Christ.
Come unto Christ, abide in Him and live. He will bless you with every perfect gift.
Seek this Jesus amidst a world of strife. Come unto Christ, and find in Him

Eternal Life."

Tears for missing our Mariah are still always close. But because of Christ, we will triumph in His might, and find Eternal Life. We continue to count the many gifts from His hand, and wait for the perfect day when there are no more tears, only joy. What more can we be thankful for?!

Thanksgiving blessings to all of you!

HP7

2010-11-21T16:52:00.001-08:00

Jonah was pretty devastated that HP 7 was PG-13, so he got left at home for the big premiere! Poor guy! Everyone else sure loved it, though! This year our numbers went from 4 kids to 8 kids, plus a few moms to see the show, then home for a Harry Potter pizza party....Nine large pizzas disappeared like magic...without the invisibility cloak!!!

And guess what?!?!? The second time was even better! After pizza, I went back with Brian and another couple to watch it "adult" style!!!!

Now we can't wait for Part 2!

Halloween Take 1...

2010-10-29T18:41:00.000-07:00

Brian came up with the family idea this year!!!

Watch out, Dr. Suess!

And a big Happy Seventh Birthday to Thing #7!!!!! Her birthday post should be coming soon!!!

Some things you just HAVE to blog!!!!

2010-10-22T15:36:00.000-07:00

Yep, I'm breaking my blogging hiatus for this.....

The MAGIC childhood moments that no more training wheels bring!!

You go, Bekah!!!

And for you, Nana....

But that's not all...look who couldn't be outdone!!!

Of course, going back up the hill is easier this way!!

(OK, Nana, this video is weird...it will tell you it's unavailable, but if you double click it will take you to watch it on Youtube....)

But, wait, there's more!

Remember THIS? (March, 2009)

Well, check out this!! Today, October 22, 2010

Woot, Woot!
And for a closer look (yeah, we're still waiting for more to come in....)
(ok, those are not rotten teeth on the bottom, he just wants everyone to see his black retainer icky...BTW....see his little "caterpillar" on his top lip?!?!?!? How'd that happen?!?!)
...and until those other teeth come in, we have "retainer buddies"!
Ok, can you believe this post still isn't done?

The BIG finale:

First peek at new Washburn Baby....almost 14 weeks!
We found out on Brian's birthday in August we were expecting this new little one...and guess the due date....Catherine's birthday in April! Now talk about a loving God who gives good gifts?!?!? All looks good, and we are hopeing and praying this baby gets to come to our home this time!

So, now you know the reason for the blog hiatus....so keep praying for us!

Ten Months, Ten Roses

2010-10-08T15:10:00.000-07:00

"Parents who have surrendered the sweetest and smallest flowers from the family's garden need to remember our Heavenly Father. He has promised a special reward to those who now suffer in silence, who spend long days and longer nights through their trying times of bereavement. Our Creator has promised glory. He said, 'For after much tribulation come the blessings. Wherefore the day cometh that ye shall be crowned with much glory; the hour is not yet, but nigh at hand.' (D&C 58:4) That promised glory includes the blessing of reunion with each child who has left the family circle to help surviving members of the family to draw nearer to God. Those children still live and are a heritage to the Lord." Russell M. Nelson

How glorious it will be.

We miss you so much, and love you even more, sweet Angel Baby Mariah.

Thanks, Jeremy!!!!

2010-09-19T18:28:00.000-07:00

So take a look at the dedication on this piece of music:

A very talented and wonderful young friend arranged this piece of "Called to Serve" for us, and he just left for his Freshman year of college a few weeks ago! Well, Jeremy, in case you're feeling a bit homesick, we wanted to let you know we were thinking of you!!! It's not perfect yet, but we hope it makes you, (and plenty others), smile!

(OOPS, we dropped the melody there on the last note, but that just means you can sing along and add it in yourself!)

Thanks, again, Jeremy! So in between college classes, maybe you can make an arrangement of "There is Sunshine in My Soul Today"! Because that's what this song did for us!

Nine Months, Nine Roses

2010-09-08T15:24:00.000-07:00

This month anniversary was a hard one. We passed that mark where now she has been gone from us longer than she was with us. How swiftly the tears still come.

But not forever.

".....Heaven's kindness will never depart from you, regardless of what happens......Bad days come to an end, faith always triumphs, and heavenly promises are always kept."

--Jeffrey R. Holland-

No, not forever.

We miss you so much, and love you even more, sweet Angel Baby Mariah. We wish you had been with us longer. One day, you will be. I wish it was today.

You Go, Girl!

2010-08-24T06:40:00.000-07:00

A clip from Kamberlynne's latest work in progress...

Contemporary composer Jon Schmidt's "Waterfall". Cool, huh? The composer's note was to "play piece with obnoxious body movement and facial expression". She's still working on it!

Our Hero

2010-08-22T16:00:00.000-07:00

Things are going to happen. They just are. We had one of those, and we are so glad Jonah was around!

I was upstairs working on Saturday chores, Brian was outside doing the same. When you're a momma, you always have a part of your brain on alert and a listening ear for the kiddos, no matter what you're doing. You mommas know what I mean.

And I heard something. A mixture of Briella coughing/gagging/crying/hysteria. I haven't heard that specific combo before. I bolted downstairs to the kitchen and took her in my arms. My Jonah calmly explained that he had been making and eating apple slices from the corer-slicer-thingy, and she had been standing on the chair next to him, helping. And you guessed it, she started to choke. Jonah said he could tell she was trying to cough it out, but no sound was coming.( Now remember, Brian and I are both seconds away, and he could have called for help, but he said he didn't even think of it.) He wrapped his arms around her, just above her tummy (thanks heavens she was standing on that chair) and performed a perfect hiemlich maneuver. It was at that point that the coughing/gagging/crying/hysteria sound began, and within seconds I was there.

It was only after Jonah told the story did I realize what a lovely sound that combo is.

And in the next moment I remembered how blessed we are to have Jonah in our family. I have seen many of his gifts over the years, but to see him problem solve a potentially life threatening situation calmly and act appropriately without hesitation isn't one I've witnessed in him before. What a special special guy. And I get to be his momma.

Bless you, Jonah.

Eight Months, Eight Roses

2010-08-17T16:01:00.000-07:00

Through many dangers, toils and snares
I have already come;
'Tis Grace that brought me safe thus far
and Grace will lead me home.

The Lord has promised good to me.
His word my hope secures.
He will my shield and portion be,
As long as life endures.

(Amazing Grace verses 3 and 4
John Newton)

We held our beautiful baby for only a day, and somehow, we have made it to eight months later. "Tis grace that brought me safe thus far". The only way it has been possible is through the Lord's promises, hope, and love. His grace is amazing.

We gave Mariah her middle name long before she was born, but how much more power it has to us now.

We miss you so much, and love you even more, sweet angel baby. Sending kisses to heaven for you.

Another perk...

2010-08-12T12:56:00.000-07:00

of homeschooling---

Fortunately, you don't have to do too much of this.

I pretty much despise doing the "pack your lunch" thing. I only have one more day left after 5 weeks in two different sessions of theatre camp this summer, and I am grateful all over again that we homeschool!

What would I have done without Bj's?!?!?

You momma's that do the real non-Bj's thing everyday for a whole school year amaze me.

Ugh.

Grab some Popcorn....

2010-08-09T17:17:00.000-07:00

...and enjoy the show!

We're back in our second theatre camp for the summer, but we thought Rebekah's first show was so cute, we wanted to share it before the next show is over!!!!

The show was a musical version of "Jack and the Beanstalk". The first number was the opener about looking forward to "Good Things (which) are Bound to Happen". Just remember, these guys are ages 5-8!

Our Peachie Pie is to the very left of the screen in pink!

Along with playing the chicken that layed golden eggs, Bekah also got a big solo as "the bean seller" who convinces Jack to trade his cow for the "Magic Beans"! Hang in there for a few minutes of dialogue, 'cause you don't want to miss the song!(Even though Jonah was in the other show, he doubles in our cast as the Sheriff and got in a few minutes on stage as well! Oh, and that's Indy as the cow...they just love filling in holes for me!)

As the director, I always sort of fear doing these little guy shows...worrying about if they are gonna remember their lines, their dances, and just about everything else in the production (like when Rebekah sang nearly her whole song with her bum toward the audience...)But I tell you, seeing these little guys pull it off it is so very rewarding...especially when my own little cutie is so adorable!

Guess Who.....

2010-07-27T06:27:00.000-07:00

dressed herself?!?!?!?

"Look, mama! Pink and Pink...they match!"

"Ummm, wow, Briella. The pink and pink....ummmm... do match. Nice job!"

We'll just leave it at that until she's four!

Lights, Camera, and alot of Action!

2010-07-23T14:19:00.000-07:00

Yep, tis the season to be....on stage! The kids worked for three weeks, Bekah in one, the boys in another, and Kamberlynne yet another! I directed/music directed the little kid show with Bekah, and music directed the middle kid show with the boys. Briella was the camp mascot!

A couple of clips from the boys' show....Indy plays a pirate wanna-be who offends the ghost of "Captain Kidd" played by Christian.

And in the reprise, Indy discovers he actually IS a real pirate!!

Jonah didn't get much spotlight this time around, but with scout camp the middle week of practice, he was glad to not have to learn the whole show the first week, like Christian! A little secret....if you ask the boys if they liked theatre camp or scout camp better, they'll tell you they can't decide! But don't tell Dad!!!!

Just kidding! Brian loved seeing them shine, and said it was one of the best summer shows ever!

Wait till you see some of Bekah's. Coming soon to a blog near you!

On a quiet summer day....

2010-07-21T12:03:00.001-07:00

So I should probably be breaking my 3 week blog hiatus with some catching up stuff...like birthdays, theatre camp, and our little trip to Montana. I'll get to it. Really. I hope.

But until then, nothing brings a little excitement to the day like multi- colored tongues!!

Don't worry, there's still a few left!

House of order....

2010-06-23T12:13:00.000-07:00

My kids do chores. It's good for them. And for the most part, they do them pretty well. But there is one that was just driving me nuts....

It starts out looking like this....

But in a few days, it looks like this....

So now, it looks like this....

Keep your fingers crossed...I'll keep you posted on how effective it is! If it works, we may be hanging reminders in plenty other places!!!

Bring it on......

2010-06-23T12:04:00.000-07:00

SUMMER!!!!

Our Daddy is Our Favorite Pal...

2010-06-20T18:45:00.000-07:00

And we know he loves us, too!

After church on Father's Day.
Take a closer look at His new tie for the special day.

Yep, you saw it right!

Is that the best tie you ever saw!?!? Brian sure thought so! He wore it with pride and joy!
Almost as much pride and joy as we have in him!

We love you Daddy!

You're Amazing, Kamberlynne!

2010-06-13T18:20:00.000-07:00

Thirty-eight required "value experiences" centered on developing the attributes of Faith, Divine Nature, Individual Worth, Knowledge, Choice and Accountability, Good Works, Integrity and Virtue.

Then seven 10+ hour projects in each of the value areas.

And an independent reading of The Book of Mormon.

Six years given to complete the Personal Progress Program.
Kamberlynne's goal....complete it in two.

Kamberlynne was awarded her certificate of completion today, along with the Young Woman Medallion. The necklace, showing the temple, is a lovely reminder of Kamberlynne's achievement as well as a continual reminder of her next goal. It also is set with a small red stone, representing the worth of a virtuous woman.

We have seen her develop her talents, seek after the Lord, strengthen her testimony,and become more like our Savior.

We are so blessed to have this lovely Daughter of God in our home. The Lord has a wonderful plan for her life...and her eternity!

For you "Little House" fans....

2010-06-12T13:05:00.000-07:00

Remember this one from the "Sisters" post??

I bet you can guess what happened next....

I just knew that was going to happen! I am such a mean momma, but I wish I had a better picture of the biff... it looked JUST like Carrie!!! I couldn't resist sharing how funny it was--- I hope you don't think too badly of me!!!!

Six Months of Missing Mariah

2010-06-08T19:25:00.000-07:00

One day...

One day I will put ribbons and bows in her hair, and not flowers on her grave.
One day I will cradle her warm body in my arms instead of her empty blankets.
One day I will lay her ever so gently down to bed instead of crying myself to sleep in my pillow.
One day I will look into her beautiful eyes for the first time, and she will sleep no more.

But it's not today.

This is today.

And it is still just so hard.

So today I will hold on a little longer. And tomorrow I will do it again.
Today I will remember that the Lord loves me. And tomorrow I will do it again.
Today I will love Him, too, for “eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him” and wait for Him. (1 Corinthians 2:9).
Today I will smile and hug and love on Mariah's brothers and sisters, and help them love God, too.
Today I will remember with every thought of her, that Heavenly Father is working something good for me.
And tomorrow I will do it again.

Because one day, the Lord will dry all my tears, and take away all my sorrows.
One day.
We miss you so much, sweet darling Mariah, and love you even more. Forever.

LIttle Sisters

2010-06-06T15:59:00.000-07:00

Sister is a lovely word
that always brings to mind...

memories of the happiest
and very warmest kind !

A little momma magic...

2010-06-04T19:16:00.000-07:00

This is for my dear darling friend Jacque...because I'm not sure you were convinced. Maybe you've got to see it to believe it!

Before... (yes, that is...I mean was.... a white wall)

After...

How??????

This thing is AMAZING!!!

And in case you're wondering...

The culprit.

The guilt.

The apology.

The little angel.
Momma magic. Gotta love it!

"Hey Niner, niner, niner"...it's a softball thing!

2010-06-02T18:41:00.000-07:00

There she is. The most amazing softball player ever. We might be a little biased. Maybe. Just a teeny bit. But probably not. Cause this girl is good!!!

Take a look:

And that's just on the mound.

She's great wherever. Behind the plate, running the bases, playing shortstop, third, and even first. And that was all in one day...in addition to pitching her best game ever!

Just like the shirt says...

Yep, it's all in a days...play!

You go, girl!!

You've had a birthday...and so have you...and so have you!!!

2010-05-30T16:51:00.001-07:00

Yep, it's a catching up on the birthdays post starting with

MINE!!

Brian indulged me with a fabulous outing to see this...

Joined by these fabulous friends...

And a fancy birthday dinner celebration afterwards here....

Topped off with...

What more could a girl ask for?!?!?

Maybe next year I'll join in on mousketeer birthday girl Briella's fabulous celebration outing to her favorite spot....

Sharing the festivities with mousketeer birthday boy cousin Pierce-ee!

And some more of her favorite mousketeers...

Then back to the clubhouse (aka home!) to continue the celebration!

"Come inside, it's fun inside!"

M-I-C....See ya real soon! K-E-Y...Why--because we like you!

And we love sharing your special day with you, too!

Just like we loved celebrating number 9 with Indy!

Another fun birthday outing...big boy style, this time!

And it even got better....
and better...

But this is the best...(at least for the momma!)
Nine years of love from an amazing, adorable, funny and clever fabulous guy that we are blessed to have in our family!

Whoo...you made it through the birthday back-up! Don't miss the next two coming up in June--hopefully they won't be backed up!!!

Five Months, Five Roses

2010-05-11T19:25:00.000-07:00

I'm just a precious little one
who didn't make it there.
I went straight to be with Jesus,
but I'm waiting for you here.
Many dwelling here where I live,
waited years to enter in.
They struggled through a world of sorrow,
a world marred with pain and sin.
Thank you for the life you gave me,
it was brief but don't complain.
I have all of Heaven's Glory,
and suffered none of earth's great pain.
Thank you for the name you gave me.
I'd have loved to bring it fame.
But if I'd lingered in earth's shadows,
I would have suffered just the same.
So sweet momma-don't you sorrow,
wipe those tears and chase the gloom.
I went straight to Jesus' arms
right from your perfect loving womb.

My dear Kamberlynne was recently having a painfully hard and teary day dealing with life and all its challenges. My heart was so so sad for her. I told her how much I wanted to be able to take away that pain and make all her hurt go away forever.

And in that moment, I had a bit of healing in my own heart. In partnering with God to create Mariah's beautiful little body and giving her life within me for that short time, she now never has to suffer and cry and hurt and sorrow over the pain of mortality. I could do for her what I couldn't do for Kamberlynne. And in my heart I rejoiced at the realization that I would never have to see Mariah's eyes full of tears or face full of sorrow.

And so we are still trusting God every moment of every day to wipe our tears and chase the gloom.

We miss you so much, sweet Angel Baby Mariah, and love you even more. Forever.

Happy, Happy Birthday, Ellie Dear!

2010-05-08T18:35:00.000-07:00

How did we go from this....

to this....

in just a blink?!?!?

And how did we get from here....

to here....

in just three short years?!?!?

On Briella's special day, we can't help but share our love and gratitude for the miraculous way Heavenly Father brought her to us. With all our hearts, we thank you, dear birth mommy Hillary. Now more than ever, I know for myself how hard it is to say goodbye to a beautiful baby girl. What an amazing gift you gave.

And, Oh, how we love her!

First Offerings of Spring!

2010-04-25T18:55:00.000-07:00

For me?!?!? Oh, darling Bekah, they are almost as beautiful as you are!

Another one of those moments when all the fame, adoration, prestige and riches of the world don't even begin to compare with a handful of wilted flowers plucked from the backyard by a freckle-faced redhead.

I am so blessed. So so so very blessed.

Four months, Four roses

2010-04-08T19:31:00.000-07:00

"Fear thou not; for I [am] with thee: be not dismayed; for I [am] thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness." Isaiah 41:10

We miss you so much and love you even more, Mariah. We are choosing every day to trust God, and let him help and uphold us.

He has never let us down before, and one day we will be able to testify that He didn't this time, either. We will praise Him for his great blessings. The joyful ones, and the ones that broke our hearts.

Tears of love for you, sweet angel baby.

Christ the Lord is Risen Today!

2010-04-04T16:14:00.000-07:00

Alleluia!

"I am the resurrection and the life....

He that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live...

And he that liveth and believeth in me shall never die." John 11:25-26

"Jesus is risen, Jesus our Friend.
Joy fills our hearts, He lives again
Praises we sing to Him this Easter time
Jesus is Risen, Savior Divine.
Jesus is Risen, Savior Divine."

Come, Follow Me

2010-04-03T16:44:00.000-07:00

We spent a wonderful week following Jesus through the last days of His mortal ministry. Each morning's devotional centered on the corresponding day of Jesus' last week, and hands on activities afforded opportunities for everyone to have a personal experience as we grew in knowledge, testimony, and love for our Savior and His sacrifice.

Thursday is always a highlight of the week! On Jesus' last Thursday, He participated in the Passover with His apostles. For a few years now, we've participated in our own Passover. This year, we even had some cousins in on the fun, and invited some friends to join our meal!

The kids made the same foods Jesus would have eaten at His Last Supper.

Jonah and Graeme created a lovely traditional Haroset.

Christian and Connor mastered Unleavened Bread.

Bekah and Ellie worked on the Grapes.

And Indy got to prepare the fish (the lamb thing is too much for me!).
Add some pistachios, olives, cheese, bitter herbs, and Egyptian rice with lentils and you get....

Then we turned out all the lights, reclined on the floor, and ate our Passover Feast like Jesus and His apostles...without utensils! We read the same scriptures from Psalms used in the traditional Passover, the origin of the holiday, discussed the symbolism of each food item, and how everything in the Passover points to our Savior and His great Sacrifice. Every year it gets better and better!

On Friday, we tried a new activity that er enjoyed. A group of inter-denominational Christians hosted a Faith Walk through the last day of Jesus' mortal life.

It was an absolutely beautiful day outside as we "followed" his footsteps from His false trials to His tomb, and reflected on his love and sacrifice. Each of us at one point or another felt the Holy Spirit testify that Jesus truly is the Christ. His gift of the atonement to overcome physical and spiritual death has been the hope of my heart as my tears still fall for Mariah. Though I feel very deeply the sting of death now, one day my tears will all be washed away, and I will sing "Where O Death, is now thy sting?". And all because of My Savior. And even if I don't feel it all the time, I really do know it every minute of every day. I am so so grateful. It truly is wonderful.

On a day when I needed more....

2010-03-31T06:56:00.000-07:00

the Lord gave me this...

Love will Sustain.
Love will Provide.
Love Always Hopes.
Love is the Way, the Truth, the Life.
Love never fails.

Love Always Hopes. Love Never Fails.

Happy Easter.

Why no blogging for two weeks.....

2010-03-22T06:27:00.000-07:00

It's almost...

SHOWTIME!!!!
This Friday 7:00 pm & and Saturday 3:00 and 7:00
Bel Air Reckford Armory

With 4 Washburns gracing the stage, and 2 more behind the scenes!

A few teaser shots....

Blue Fairy and Geppetto

Blue Fairy and Stromboli

Wait till you see Kamberlynne's Blue Fairy....she's got wings AND *attitude*!!!!

Christian, Jonah, and Indy all have solo lines and vocal features...just haven't gotten pics yet. But never fear...that won't last for long! Momma is behind the curtain as musical director, and Dad has helped with the set (and a lot of daddy time with Bekah and Briella)! This week is "tech week"...12 hours of rehearsal between Monday and Thursday, then 3 shows!!! A few things are for certain...we will all be TIRED by the end of the week, the house will be a complete WRECK, Brian will be more than READY to have his wife back, we will be OUT of hairspray, we will order pizza for dinner AT LEAST once, and lastly...

it will ALL be worth it!

Wish us luck!!!

Happy Birthday, Nana!

2010-03-07T17:46:00.000-08:00

And in celebration, we commemorate her very first time down the jumbo inflatable slide!!!

Our birthday wish to you, Nana....

Plenty more of this....

and this...

and we can't forget this.....

...for many many years to come!
Happy Birthday!!!

Future Blogger, Briella!

2010-03-07T17:30:00.000-08:00

"Take my picture, Momma!"

"My turn, now, momma!"

Not bad for a first timer!

Monday Morning Funny

2010-03-01T05:27:00.000-08:00

Just about every Monday morning, I take Brian's Sunday tie off the stair railing and back upstairs....but look what I found for the first time this morning....

Like father, like son!

My Heart

2010-02-28T17:54:00.000-08:00

(Just to let you know....Angel Baby Mariah Journal Post)

2 and 3/4 months...

You finally get to a point where you actually can make it through each day. You are confidant that you have conquered the hardest part, and with the help of the Lord, you have made it over the hump. Though you're not up to full speed, you finally feel like it actually is possible to get there again, and the hope that the very thought of that brings is extra motivation to keep putting all your faith and trust in the Lord as you put one foot in front of the other. You have made it through "just surviving" and are oh so grateful for the strength of the Lord and your new ability to "cope". Ahhh, this is such a better place. And you are so glad to be there. You are stronger than you thought, and that feels good. You know God has a plan, and though you can't figure it out, you're okay with it. You can actually feel that truth, its made its way past going around and around in your head and has found its way into your heart. Thank Heavens. You breathe a million sighs of relief, and smile a little. It feels good. The pieces of your heart are mending.

Then one day you wake up crying. You cry and cry, the tears keep coming and coming.

They leave salty streaks down your cheeks all day long, no matter how hard you try to hold them back. The new scar tissue on your heart fails, and your heart is ripped apart once more. You feel defeated. All those days of hard work trusting the Lord and putting one foot in front of the other out of sheer will power over and over again have brought you to....a day like this.

And that is why grief is so so very hard.

So here I am, starting again. Not all the way from the beginning, but for today, it feels very close. I search for truth, and find one to start running the seemingly endless marathon around and around in my head.

"O ye my people, lift up your heads and be comforted, for behold the time is at hand, or is not far distant, when we shall no longer be in subjection to our enemies, not withstanding our many strugglings, which have been in vain; yet I trust there remaineth an effectual struggle to be made. Therefore lift up your heads, and rejoice, and put your trust in God..... "

Mosiah 12:8-9

And I pray I will soon feel that truth. I need it to make its way past going around and around in my head, and find its way into my heart.

I will "lift up my head and be comforted". My Shepherd will give me the strength to do it.

Happy Birthday, Chopin!

2010-02-26T18:23:00.000-08:00

Kamberlynne's student recital tribute to the great classical composer on his 200th birthday!

Waltz in B Major by Frederic Chopin

He couldn't have done better himself!!! Ok, well, maybe only a teeny bit!

Rebekah's first one.....

2010-02-19T05:10:00.000-08:00

Now you see it.....

Now you don't.....

I'll spare you the details!!!!

All's well that ends well, right?!?!?

Back to Blogging...and a lot of it! Post #5

2010-02-07T18:06:00.000-08:00

I love family traditions, and this is one of my favorites!

As a family, we try to read from the scriptures together morning and night. I read with the children from The Bible to start school each day, and we end the day reading The Book of Mormon: Another Testament of Jesus Christ all together as a family. Our prophet has asked us to study the scriptures together daily, with a special emphasis on the Book of Mormon. As we have done our best, we have grown in scriptural knowledge, peace in our home, and love for our Savior. Since we began back in 1998, we have read it through as a family 6 times! As a celebration for finishing each time, we take the kids pictures all dressed up as missionaries, and share with them our testimonies of the divinity of this sacred record.

Take a picture tour down Book of Mormon Memory Lane with us!

Our third time through, and first time taking pictures, June 2003! Look at those adorable little guys! And could that darling girl really be Kamberlynne?

Our fourth time through, November 2005. Bekah joins the fun!

Our fifth time through, November 2007. Briella was just a few months old and napping!

And our sixth time through, January 2010! Now Briella's in on the fun!

"Search, ponder and pray
are the things that I must do.
The Spirit will guide,
and deep inside
I know the scriptures are true!"

For more info on the Book of Mormon, or to request a free copy, this is one of my favorite sites.

Back to Blogging...and a lot of it! Post #4

2010-02-07T17:43:00.000-08:00

Another milestone passed. No more temporary marker.

I would never have imagined being anxious for my child's burial marker to come in, but I was. I was ready to have the milestone of seeing her name engraved on stone over with. It was both painful and peaceful. It is just such a beautiful name, I love seeing it surrounded by the bow on top and the flowers on the bottom.

I also would never have imagined being a person who would frequent a grave site, but I do. It is both painful and peaceful. Painful, of course, because Mariah is not with me, but peaceful, because I know without a doubt where her spirit is.

I never thought it would be possible to love a cemetery, but I do. Actually, Mariah's cemetery isn't like most. It isn't even called a cemetery, it's called a memorial garden. There aren't headstones sticking up anywhere out of the ground at all, those always sort of creeped me out. This "memorial garden" is intended to look like....well, a garden. All of the markers are laid flat into the earth, and all you see from the road are lots and lots of flowers sticking up out of the ground, That doesn't creep me out at all. I actually think it is very sweet, and if I had to bury a child, I am glad it is in a "garden". Her special place is actually set aside just for babies, it is even called "Baby Land". And in a wierd way, that makes me feel better, too. I am not the only one who has suffered such a devastating loss. When I go to visit Mariah's special place, I pray for the other broken hearts of the parents that laid thier babies to rest, just like me. It is both painful and peaceful.

And I never would have imagined I would think a grave marker or a cemetary could ever be considered lovely. But I do.

Back to Blogging...and a lot of it! Post #3

2010-02-07T16:27:00.000-08:00

Sometimes it's hard to be humble. Especially when your dad is Superman.

Top scorer on the team.

Top scorer in the league.

And the best fans anywhere!

Sometimes its hard to be humble. Especially when your husband is Superman!

Back to Blogging...and a lot of it! Post #2

2010-02-07T16:18:00.000-08:00

Every year we pray for snow! And this year, we are getting it. This weekend we were a part of history in the biggest MD blizzard since 1922!!! I'll post that later! These are a couple of pictures are from the 5 incher we got earlier in the week!

Isn't this hilarious?!?!?

Once there was a snowman....

With temperatures reaching 40 degrees that day, he was gone just a few hours later!

Back to praying for more!!!

Back to Blogging....and a lot of it! Post #1

2010-02-07T14:57:00.000-08:00

Is This Really My Boy....

Brian assures me it is! It was a big birthday year for Christian, the big twelve!

In our home, that is the official "you're a big kid now" marker, and at church as well. Christian now begins his service as a Deacon, and has the opportunity to serve and watch over The Lord's Church and His people. Our little... ummm, I mean big...guy has been preparing for quite some time, and was thrilled to have his dad put his hands on Christian's head and confer the priesthood upon him. A special, special day! Doesn't he look handsome and so grown up in his new "I'm a big kid suit"?

And for such a big birthday year, Christian got TWO celebrations! The first one was a big surprise...the night before his actual birthday, some of Christian's favorite people came and kidnapped him to go ice skating while the rest of us set up the fun surprise! He had no idea, but sure loved every minute!

Friends, aunts, uncles, cousins...and it's not often you get to have BOTH sets of grandparents around for your birthday celebration!

Pretty special! Add a super duper double chocolate cake, and it was just about the best night ever!

And really, the only thing that could top that off was mom's super duper quadruple layer chocolate cake on the actual big day! Almost as sweet as you are, cute boy!

Happy Birthday, wonderful boy! We all love you so much, and are so happy to have you in our family! You fill our family with laughter, our walls with dragon pictures, your imagination with adventure, and our hearts with love!

You are so loved!

May all your wishes come true!

One Month of Missing Mariah

2010-01-10T19:33:00.000-08:00

(Another "journal entry" post. Just letting you know.)

Every night, every single night, after Brian and I have knelt in prayer and then snuggled into our blankets, I cry. Sometimes I just weep quietly, sometimes I sob uncontrollably. And every night, every single night, I say to Brian, "push play". He knows what that means, and he starts reciting as if he were a tape recorder... "Heavenly Father loves us. He has a plan for our family here. He is doing something good. He has a plan for Mariah. We can trust Him. She is not lost. We will hold her again."

And so it has been every night for a whole month.

Grief is a weird thing. I don't know if it actually gets better, or our ability to bear it just increases. The Lord makes us stronger some days, lightens the burden on others. I don't know how that works. But I do know that I would not have survived the heartbreak and sorrow of these past days if it wasn't for Him. I am trying with everything in me to turn my heart over to Him and let Him help me and heal me, mold and shape me. I believe He is trying to make my heart more like His, and I want to let Him do it.

And He is teaching me. And giving me even more reason to hope. Isn't this treasure of knowledge lovely?

"The Lord takes many away, even in infancy, that they may escape the envy of man, and the sorrows and evils of this present world; they were too pure, too lovely, to live on earth."

“A question may be asked—‘Will mothers have their children in eternity?’ Yes! Yes! Mothers, you shall have your children; for they shall have eternal life, for their debt is paid.”

“Children … must rise just as they died; we can there hail our lovely infants with the same glory—the same loveliness in the celestial glory.”

-Joseph Smith

Those are such promising words, and I try to hold on to them every minute. And though I am so very sad and miss her so very much, I am trying to surround myself with the light of the Lord, who can dispel all darkness. And the Lord is helping me. I have been inspired to place visual and tangible reminders of His promises around our home, and they bring me comfort and peace.

Dear friends sent us this lovely quote, and we hung it with some pictures of our Angel Baby.

And another friend stitched love into this powerful reminder that I placed where I can see it throughout the day.

Around the house I have left scripture quotes to strengthen me.

My favorite reminder of God's promises is my Mariah necklace, engraved with a picture and words given to me while I was in the temple 2 weeks after we laid her to rest.

"Each tear we shed is one of love,
While we're down here and you're above.
Forever loved is what you'll be.
Always in our hearts through eternity.
When at the trump we'll again see your face,
Then in our arms once more, darling Mariah Grace.

It is on a chain just long enough to rest right by my heart. I wear it all the time.

And with the Lord's strength, I somehow made it through the first month without her.

Brian and I visited her grave on her one month birthday. It was as bitterly cold as the day we buried her. I placed a single pink rose, along with a pink banner and a small picture on the site where the little perfect body of my sweet daughter is laid. Brian sang "How Great Thou Art" while I cried.

After dinner, the children all blew kisses to heaven for Mariah to catch, and ate pink cupcakes I had decorated with candy hearts.

Brian and I knelt in prayer that night, and then snuggled into our blankets. He wiped my tears, and I said to him, "push play". And he started reciting as if he were a tape recorder... "Heavenly Father loves us. He has a plan for our family here. He is doing something good. He has a plan for Mariah. We can trust Him. She is not lost. We will hold her again."

Happy One Month Birthday, Sweet Angel Baby. We miss you so very much, Mariah, and love you even more.

Farewell to the Holidays...Hello New Year!

2010-01-04T10:54:00.000-08:00

Yep, the tree is down, the lights are no longer twinkling, and I am just now doing the holiday blog!!! We were just too busy having fun! Here are some of our Holiday Highlights!

I just love holiday clothes....and especially the cuties in them!!

How about cute Christmas Elves helping in the kitchen?!?

And those excited Christmas lambies on the morning of the big day?!?!?

Oh, the joy of visits from loved ones! Thanks for coming to see us, Katie and Andrew!

Don't forget the gingerbread house decorating!

Even better...the lights at the temple!

And more Christmas posing for momma...

And even MORE Christmas posing.... (can we be done, yet, mom?!?!?)

Ok, how about some family field trips while we enjoy Dad?!?!? Yahoo!

And let's add in some cousins for some New Year's Celebrating!!

But the best of all:

The sacred wonder of the babe born in Bethlehem, who brought the greatest love the world has ever known. So magnificent, it seems incomprehensible, but so beautifully simple, even a child can feel it.

Yep, that's how it makes me feel, too!

May it fill all of our hearts each and every day!

Who's at the door?

2009-12-24T14:49:00.000-08:00

From our hearts to yours, may you have a Very Merry Christmas!
The holiday had its beginning, but the message has no end!!!

Love,
Brian, Catherine, and all our Christmas Lambies!