Memorial Day

We had such a great Memorial Day weekend. We had the opportunity to go to Logan and visit the graves of my Grandpa and Grandma Nielsen and my Great-Grandparents on my Mom's side. It was a neat opportunity to teach my kids about their ancestors and the plan of salvation - that we will all be together again. Then we had the opportunity to have lunch with my Grandpa and Grandma Jackson. It was so nice and the kids had a GREAT time rolling down the hill in the backyard - just like I used to when I was their age - and happened to have a couple races with them this time too! (no, i will NOT be posting video of those races!!!) Boy, that hill was a lot bigger back then! Ü

I just wanted to take this opportunity to thank our military men and women who do so much for us! We tend to go about our daily lives forgetting the men, women and families being affected on a daily basis fighting for our freedom and protection. Fighting for the future of children in war torn countries. Putting their lives on the line for you and me. Here is a tribute to the men and women - past, present and future who have given their lives for me. I thank you. God Bless America.

Project Domestication

I found this fun new blog from my friend Bethany. Super cute! Check it out! http://projectdomestication.blogspot.com/

Mountains

John took these pictures of our beautiful montains last evening from our back patio. It was a spectaular sight- fresh snow, bright blue skies and white puffy clouds. It's nice when you take a moment to enjoy the beauty of the earth around us. Just wanted to share!!! p.s. loving my new camera!

Why I love the month of May

What's not to love about the month of May? I, personally, believe it to be the very best of all the months... now, granted, there are a lot of great months that make up a year, but... I happen to love the month of May. Why? you ask... Let me tell you.

#1 Mothers. I have been blessed with a wonderful mother. She's amazing. I have a very special Grandma who is very close to my heart... and the memories of my other Grandma are cherished treasures. I have also been blessed to two mothers-in-law who I have learned so much from. I love all of them. I love the fact that after many years and hundreds of unanswered prayers, I have the opportunity to be a mother to 3 of the most beautiful, amazing, funny, happy children on earth. I am so blessed and so honored.

#2 Birthdays! Next to the month of July- May has the most birthdays for our family! Plus- It's my birthday! Who doesn't love their birthday? I love my birthday. This year, my wonderful and amazing husband happened to give me an awesome new camera, along with some photography classes! How great is that? Remember my previous post about creativity and hidden talents? Well, I'm going to dive in deep and see what I can accomplish! Ü Also, we went to a boutique and I found a wonderful new watch. I'm kinda particular when it comes to watches, but we found a wonderful watch that has interchangeable bands. Handmade with all kinds of cool beads, stones and gems. LOVE IT!

#3 Flowers. One of my most favorite things I have are my lilac bushes. These bushes were starts off of my late Grandpa Nielsen's lilac bushes. They are the most beautiful, fragrant lilacs I have ever seen or smelled. My pictures, unfortunately, don't do them much justice. (see photo at top of post)

#4 Spring planting. This weekend John was out of town at a seminar, so the kids and I went over to my parents to help plant their garden. We had a blast! The sun was hot and their was a happiness in the air. We had such a great time!

So, I didn't mean for this post to become a novel... but it's been awhile and I have a lot to be grateful for during this wonderful month of May!

Ninethemay

So funny. Years ago after graduating High School, I had the opportunity to work as an optometrist assistant. It was there that I made a dear friend, Laurie. To make a long story short and to get to the point of this post, Laurie introduced me to a new tradition. Years ago, Laurie's dad went to school with a girl who was named "Ninethemay" (guess her parents were either very creative or not so creative - you decide). Laurie's parents thought that was so great that every year on May 9th they held a special celebration in honor of "Ninethemay". So, to carry on the tradition on this day in May, we say, Happy Birthday Ninethemay. Ü

I love rain

I. love. rain. I do! Last night we had quite the rainstorm, nothing like the rainstorms we experienced in Iowa, but it was awesome nonetheless. I loved waking up this morning to the smell of wet cement and wet grass. I loved how green everything looked. I loved seeing the puddles in the road showing that the storm we experienced was more than a little drizzle - we got a good earth quenching rain. There is nothing that compares to the beauty of the gorgeous spring blossoms with drops of rain glistening as the sun came up from behind Mt. Timpanogos. What a beautiful spring morning.

Tooth Fairy visits!

What a weekend! Joseph lost his first tooth on Saturday, right there at Chick-fil-A in the mall! How exciting is that!?! He couldn't have been more excited to call everyone and let them know the big news and show everyone at Nate and Cassie's wedding Saturday afternoon. Loosing the tooth got me thinking... what's the deal with the tooth fairy? Where did that come from? What does she do with all those teeth? (Joseph's question) What is the going rate for the tooth fairy? yikes! If you're curious too - see what i found here.

Also, here are pictures of Mahlia, Joseph and cousin Gage dancing with the bride! (please pardon the cell phone pic.'s) Congrats Nate and Cassie!!! We love you!!!