Fantastic Friends

We added three girls and a puppy to our household last week. Friday afternoon we added another gal for 24 hours and Saturday we tossed one more in the mix for good measure. All of the kids were awesome and had a wonderful time together. While Thatcher enjoyed the ladies, he was able to escape our grasp on Saturday and spend some much needed boy time at one of his good friends as well. Our only set back happened when a stomach bug entered the picture and took out 2/3rd's of our "army". Luckily it only lasted 24 hours for most of us. With the exception of that small "hiccup", it was a wonderful, nonstop week of play and fun. I know our family will look back at our time in Fayetteville and remember the amazing families and friends we've already had the great pleasure to meet.

Raxtus first had to decide what he thought about his new friend.

Then he had to decide how to get his bone.

 They must have struck a deal because Raxtus ended up with the bone,
Ranger with a soft bed and toy.

A Memorable Moment

We were lucky to have Mom and Dad Ballard visit last weekend. Steven was called to the high council and Dad had the sweet experience of ordaining him as a high priest. From baptism until now, he's had this opportunity with his only son and we are so very grateful for their willingness to come share this sacred moment. How grateful we are for the gospel and the great blessings that our Father in Heaven gives to His children.

School Awards 12-13

When it comes to academics, they are definitely their fathers daughters!

His Genes....

(A honor rolls, top reader, literary writing winner)

Mine!

 His Genes...

 

Civic Oration Speech (3rd Place)

Mine!

 His Genes...

Mine!

His Genes....

 (3rd Place Science Fair)

  

Mine!

The Marble House

We drove to Raleigh a few weeks ago and tried out their children's museum. It was tons of fun! I even "hired" a girl from our neighborhood to take Raxtus out and play with him throughout the day, thus our visit could be extended. The bad news? Out of habit I ended up locking our door from the garage and she couldn't get into the home. The good news? We discovered that our home is pretty well secured without a key. My "habit" meant that we needed to return back to Fayetteville much earlier than planned, but the kiddos had a blast with the three hours they enjoyed and can't wait to return for another visit to explore.

Valentine's Day '13

I love Valentines Day! It just makes me happy. Once Christmas is over there seems to be a sudden long and drastic lull from exciting and fun, to boring and cold. This wonderful day of happiness and love puts a fresh new spin on any winter days remaining, and, reminds us once again how lucky we are to have the people we love surrounding us.

Now She's Nine

Our sweet Kadyn turned nine last week. She woke in the morning surrounded by balloons, each one having a birthday wish attached from individuals she loves. This year she decided to celebrate at Olive Garden with Loryn and Myah. Her favorite restaurant with her favorite friends. Loryn's oldest sister (Ally) happens to be Ryley's close friend as well. Since they all frequently hang out together it was a perfect match of friends and fun. We returned from dinner to find Steven, Thatch, and Haley had kindly prepped the cake, ice cream, and presents. We immediately enjoyed loads of sugar, after which the entire group disappeared upstairs to play with the exciting new toys. Kadyn is a wonderful daughter. Her desire to serve and love others (especially her siblings) is a true example of Christ. She amazes me daily and we're still not sure how we got so lucky to be watching over her. Happy 9th Birthday Kadyn!