Building more than just a Bookshelf

So... we had ran out of storage space for our movie collection around Christmas this past year. I kept putting off getting anything because I just didn't want to spend money on something I didn't like. However, I finally got sick of stacking the movies higher and higher on the wall and so I went out and purchased this bookshelf. I brought it home fully expecting Ben to put it together.
Well, he didn't. My awesome husband saw an opportunity for some good learning experiences. I think it originally started as a project for the boys, but of course Rae got into the action as soon as she got home. They had such a good time and worked so well with each other. It was great to see them bond together while working together to accomplish their goal.
Almost done! Of course Rae had to try it out before the shelves went in.

And here they are... with their masterpiece! They did such a fantastic job! And Jason, Vincent and Rae are closer than ever. (I think I just might go get some other things for them to work on... hee hee)

A Priest named Jason

There are all kinds of scary things associated with children turning 16. Driving (I'll never sleep again), dating (where do I start???), jobs.... will I ever see my son again? But some things make it all worth it. I am so proud of Jason. He is such an amazing guy. He is extremely grounded on his beliefs and his strong testimony lifts us all. Grandma Alice and Grandpa Gene came up from Flowell and Grandma Doris and Grandpa Brian drove over from Centerville to share Jason's ordaining with us. Thank you for helping us to make it a special day!
Vincent really looks up to his big brother. (He will probably deny this if you ask.... brother rivalry has become huge around here). They do really love each other. I try to grasp the hugs when I can.
I think the adoration goes both ways with Rae and Jason. (Bet you couldn't tell, huh.)

And of course we had to add the wacky picture of the family. No shortage of fun around here!

Thoughts on Conference

I have been so excited about this past General Conference. I think it is not only because of my love for President Monson and being able to participate in sustaining him as our new head of church, but more so because I have been more prepared to listen and learn. I had been praying for some guidence in many areas of life, especially where it comes to my children. Please, please, please dear father, help me!!! There were several talks that really impressed me, but two talks totally hit home. Sunday afternoon session. Thank you Sister Tanner for that beautiful talk on "My Soul Delighteth". I have so much to be thankful for and so much to "delight" in. My incredible husband, my wonderful children, my awesome family, my sweet home, thoughtful friends, incredible teachers, beautiful children to take care of, living prophets, and most importantly my Savior. Thank you Elder Ballard for your inspirational talk of "Young Mothers". Now, I know that I'm not that young (compared to most of the mothers in my ward), but I am still not even near "old". I loved listening to his questions and answers. It was also good for me to trade out my name and put Ben in here and there. His wise counsel was the answer to my prayers. Thank you dear Father in Heaven! Thank you for loving me and hearing me and helping me. What a testimony building weekend for me.

What was the Easter Bunny thinking????

Crazy string in the baskets! The kids had a blast..... Again, I wish I'd had more battery in my camera. Fun times.

Easter at the Erkies

Easter was a lot of fun. We went up to Idaho to spend it with Cindy and her awesome family. It was interesting to see how different families celebrate this special holiday. My kids were a little confused about why the Easter bunny didn't leave a jellybean trail to the baskets. And it was interesting to hunt eggs in patches of snow. Overall, it was a very happy weekend. I didn't get as many pictures as I would have liked.... somebody (Jason) used up the battery in my camera. So, please enjoy the ones I did get.

















The Robin, Idaho Easter Egg Hunt was super!!!! They took a count of how many kids showed up and divided it up between how many eggs were hidden. Then they let each child find 11 eggs! It worked out great... everyone went home happy!