Jr. mint turns 12

I can't believe my first born is 12. He is so excited to turn 12 so he can receive the priesthood and go to young mens. Kinamo is the most amazing young man. He is such a big helper at home, a very good student and he has strong testimony. We are so blessed to have him in our family.


Here are a few pictures to look back on how much he has grown.



Happy Birthday Kinamo Jr.

Happy Valentine's Day

This year for Valentines day I decided I wanted to cook a really nice dinner for my whole family. Our lives are very challenging with Kinamo's work schedule, so I didn't want to take the night away from the kids. I decorated the table, bought little gifts and cooked a wonderful dinner. We eat bread with garlic dipping sauce, roasted vegetables, filet mignon, shrimp and drank a sparkling cranberry juice. For dessert we had Cherry Chocolate torte. It was so good that we all eat until past full. Little Kinamo commented that he didn't think he would need much breakfast tomorrow because he was so full. We had a wonderful night sitting around the table talking. Joey wasn't the biggest fan of the meal, but when dessert came you bet he had his fill. I love these special moments with the kids.

I did it!!

Well, I hit my goal. On Jan 1 I gave up coke. I decided I wanted to be free from the caffeine. My goal was no soda of any kind until Valentines day. Today is Valentines and I am happy to say I was successful in attaining my goal. I have felt so good that I have decided to continue being caffeine free. If any of you have the same addiction, I really recommend giving it up. I love not having the highs and lows that come with it. After the first week it was really easy. I just wish sweets were as easy to avoid.

Happy Birthday Haley!

Can she really be 10 already? Sweet Haley turned 10 on February 6. It seems like yesterday she was this little bitty girl. She started out life at only 6 pounds. Now she is 4 '7 and 71 pounds. Haley is the sweetest girl with a big heart. She loves to give out hugs. She also loves to be a big helper to her mom. We are so blessed to have Haley as a wonderful part of our family.

My hat goes off

Tuesday I was waiting in front of a friends house for her to get home so I could drop off Joey. While I was waiting the garbage truck came up the road to collect the trash. I moved out of their way and then set and watched them. I was so fascinated by the job they did. They move quick with great teamwork. As I watched them put dirty, stinking garbage in their truck I thought about all the times I have opened my own can and wanted to pass out from the stench of dirty diapers and rotten food. I had a strong feeling of gratitude come over me for their willingness to do their job. So my hat goes off to all those willing to do the dirty work.