Happy Third Birthday Gavin

Dear Gavin,

Happy Birthday my sweet little bug! Today you would be three years old! I woke up this morning and looked at the clock. You were born at 10:01am. This morning I looked outside. It is slightly overcast, hot and even a little humid. Just like that day three years ago.

Three years . . . I can't believe it has been three years. Gavin, I hope you know that there isn't a day that goes by that I don't think of you. You have influenced me to be a better mother, wife, daughter, sister, friend and person. Days like this are a good reminder of the things that are truly important.

I am grateful for my time with you. You were a miracle. I remember speaking with a physician after you passed away about your condition. He said that most children with the problems you had never make it through pregnancy or birth. Yet, we were given three months to know you. Although, sometimes I wish that you were given the miracle of a healing - I now understand that your three months and your fight to stay here were our miracle. I have learned that even when the Lord doesn't answer our prayers exactly the way we want, He grants us other miracles and tender mercies to bless our life.

So, happy third birthday! Jack and I went for doughnuts this morning and have cuddled on the couch watching Curious George (Jack's new favorite show). I wish you were here to join us. Maybe you are . . .


I love you with all my heart and I know your daddy does too. You are a special special boy who holds a very sacred and dear place in our hearts and family.

Have a happy birthday in Heaven.

Love,
Your Momma

Gavin's Birthday Party

We decided to celebrate Gavin's birthday just before Matt left for his mission - so it was a week or two early. Here are some pictures from the party.

It was a baseball theme this year! After cake and ice cream we headed over to the cemetery and released three balloons for his third birthday. It was so nice to have lots of family there to celebrate with us.
We all love to write messages on the balloons before we send them off.
Me and my momma.

We let Jack release the balloons. Here he is saying "GO!"

A New Summer Do

I love Jack's hair.

But summer in Vegas is just too hot for it.

So Aunt Lauren was kind enough to buzz it.
And we had a little fun too . . .

He will get used to it. :)

Happy 18 Months Jack!

I'm a little behind in posting about Jack turning 18 months - but here it is!

July 14, 2010 Jack hit the 18 month mark!

I just can't believe how time is flying.

He is so much fun and so full of personality.

He knows exactly what he wants and stays determined.

I sure hope that characteristic sticks around.

Even though it is difficult to deal with as a toddler, I can imagine that sense of determination will benefit him as an adult.

I just love him to pieces.

We decided to take Jack out for his "birthday" so we got Happy Meals at McDonald's and then bought this car for him.

He looooves it!
Jason even personalized his license plate for him.

So Long, Farewell

Today my brother Matt went to the Missionary Training Center to begin his mission. In a few months he will be headed to Mexico City, Mexico.

Here he is saying goodbye to our sister Becca.

Matt will be amazing. He is so intelligent and determined.

I will be offering lots of prayers on his behalf.

I will be missing him a lot too, however, I know this is a good thing.

Happy 8th Anniversary

Dear Husband,

Remember this day eight years ago?

It is the very best day of my life - because I married you.

These last eight years have been quite a journey, but you have always remained consistent.

I love you.

I can't wait for the rest of eternity with you.

Love,

Me

PS - We look like babies!!

This Is What Grandma's Are For

See this picture?

My mom sent it to me while Jack was playing at her house last week.

This is why Jack has a Grandma Cindy . . . cause his mom wouldn't have been so cool about it right now.

4th of July

Fourth of July was a HUGE deal to our family when we were kids. We would spend the day swimming and then hours lighting off fireworks that we had carefully picked out and placed in order from smallest to largest.

I thought it was so fun that we are able to carry on this tradition with Jack. Last week Aunt Becca and Grandpa Dave (otherwise known as Pop Pops) took Jack to pick out fireworks.

(Maybe I am in love with this first picture because Pop Pops and Jack have the same "hair-do" HA!) Dad teaching Jack how to throw Snaps.
Grandma Cindy and Jack

Jack was so funny with his expressions while he watched the fireworks.

The kid has no fear.

Thanks Grandma, Pop Pops, Aunt Becca and Uncle Matt for a fun filled day of fireworks, swimming, naps, good food and "The Sandlot."