November Blessings!

November was full of scout campouts, family reunions, Battle of the Books, reports and lots of fun! Not to mention Thanksgiving. Here is how our November went:

Taylor completed his first competition for Battle of the Books. John was able to make it since I was unable to. 

First Day of School Pictures!

Wednesday was the 1st day of school for the boys. I also have Rebecca in Pre-School this year, but that will not start until September.

Battle of the Books & Birthday Fun!

I downloaded pictures earlier this week, but just now getting around to posting something. I am stopping right before Taylor's birthday so I can do a post about that later.

After Easter, my sister Jen went home and my sister Kathryn stayed for another week. She introduced me to Gamma Glasses. They really help with the glare on the computer as well the lights in stores and church. They really seem to be helping me.

Last week of Summer + First Day of School!

So what do you do the last week of summer? I was still adjusting to my medication, so we did not do a whole lot, but I think we had fun.

We went to the library where they had a whole room of trains set up. The younger two enjoyed them more than the older two.

Last Day of School!

Hard to believe today is the last day of school for the boys. Last day of elementary school for Jonathan too...
I took pictures this morning and thought we would compare the boys over the year. They have all matured and growing so fast!

Jonathan first day of school 6th Grade - Miss Sievert

We Can Do Hard Things! (and survive)

I can tell the end of the school year is here! We have a lot going on right now. Let's start with the Spring Sing!!! I played for the 1st & 2nd graders so I was able to watch the rest of my children perform. Taylor said, "As much as I hate to admit it, those Kindergartners are the cutest!" I have to agree. Here is our little Kindergartner:

Glimpse Into Our Family

Last weekend, our stake had a Relief Society Conference.  The theme was on "Enjoy the Journey."  It was something that I needed to hear.  I think as a mother it is too easy to get wrapped up in the daily list of things to do verses taking a step back and really looking at what is going on in your home.  If you do nothing else, I suggest reading this blog post on Drops of Awesome and then think how you can apply it in your own life.  I think I cried through most of the story as it was being read.

Another Week to Report

The highlight of last week was with this guy:

Jonathan has run for student council twice a year since 4th grade and last Friday elections were held again.  He is now the Vice President for Franklin West Elementary.  As you can tell from his smile, he was very excited.  

Busy Week Before Christmas!

We had something every night last week.  So between cleaning our old place, unpacking, getting ready for Thomas' birthday and Christmas we had other events on top of all that!

Tuesday night was the boys Winter Sing concert.  Thomas was very excited to finally have a concert!  He thought it was just for him, so he was confused his brothers were getting dressed up for it as well.  We got there late, so we had to start by sitting in the front row.  Pictures were not that great.  I got to briefly see Thomas' music teacher and my old friend Mr. Gavin Rittenhouse.  It has been 20 years since I have seen him.  Thomas did a wonderful job, knew all the words and actions and had the best facial expressions!  (He is on the second row up with the red tie on.  The lights were really bright!

Home & Family Crazy Life

What a week!  I think I blinked and it was over.  It started with Rebecca waking up Monday morning sick.  I had a babysitter all lined up and ended up taking her to the house with me the first three days.  (That went really well...working and toddlers don't mix too well.) 

Rebecca got into a red marker and covered her hands somehow!

The Thrill of Victory...

...and the agony of defeat.

That pretty much described our day yesterday.