Christmas

Thanksgiving 2010

This year I could not be more grateful for what I have. Thanksgiving is a good reminder to think about everything in a different and wonderful perspective and I truly am grateful this year. I get to be with my husband again... 5 plus months apart I wish on no family and do not know how military families do it! Which leads me to gratitude for those families who do sacrifice that time together. I am grateful mostly for my family, the gospel and most importantly my Father in Heaven. What a great life he has given us. I am so grateful for the knowledge of the purpose of life through its joys and sorrows, happiness and trials. I am so grateful for my relationship with my Savior and Father and for their comfort and confirmation throughout this year. Not once have a felt alone or that our trials have been without purpose. The reason for them I may not understand, but I know that they have brought me closer to my Savior and I have a greater testimony of His plan. Through being apart from Derek, a miscarriage (and surgery), the sadness of my children longing for their daddy, and without even getting into the incredible things which happened with Derek's school I am stronger and more proud of my husband and my family. While it hasn't been fun - at all - or even close to easy and even depressing and worrisome, there is purpose and we have not lost faith, which somehow makes me feel successful in a small way. (Which I hope isn't blasphemy and pride.) We love each other more than anything and have been reminded of how important family is. I am also grateful for my extended family which has helped us have a place to live, watched my children and lifted our spirits with encouragement and support. The gospel is true, without a doubt. I am grateful for the gift of the Hold Ghost, who brings comfort, strength and personal revelation. I am grateful for the plan of salvation and that I have the opportunity to live with my family for all eternity - WHAT A BLESSING!

Halloween 2010

This year for Halloween the weather was just right. We went to our brother and sister's ward party and had a family Halloween party and played minute to win it games (thanks to Maile :) )We had yummy soups in cute little pumkins shaped bread bowls and lots of cute little spooky desserts. We had an awesome time playing together and loved everyone's costumes!

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The Big 3-0

This year my fine looking husband enjoyed reaching a milestone in age. I officially call him old now ( even though I secretly wish to be thirty.) While it wasn't the exciting fun filled day I'd have given him if our situation was a bit different, it was a good one. I cooked a big steak dinner and some yummy dessert with our family. The kids and I picked him out some new but necessary work clothes and a soccer ball and cleats for his own soccer season that just started with his family a few weeks ago. He is truly an amazing and patient man. I could not be more grateful to have such a wonderful husband, father and example! Love you!!

Derek gets to come home - finally!

TBDone

While wifey is away...

The big boy plays...
I had to laugh a little when Derek sent me this picture of himself and what he's been up to in Philadelphia while we are here in Arizona. I guess when there is no one to tell you no and keep away the kisses, this is what you do!
I actually think it looks better than I would have expected, not that I'm requesting this style any time soon.

Ashlyn Turns 3

It is hard to believe that it has already been three years that we have been able to enjoy our sweet little Ashlyn. She is truly a joy. She is so full of energy and love for life. She is happy and has the cutest little voice and laugh. This year we were able to spend her birthday with some friends and family and it was quiet and nice. She had no requests for her cake, so she got a simple flower - bur she loved it so all is well. She loves her gifts: makeup, a purse, a leotard, a baby that cries, jewelry, a journal and a cute little princess book. Her cousins spoiled her this year. Ashlyn continues to grow and is learning well. She starts preschool next week, has conquered her regression in potty training (95%) and weighs in at 28 pounds. She continues to active and loud. She is very sensitive to others' feelings, wants to be big when it is convenient only and loves to sing. We love our Ashlyn!