Sleigh Rides

While I was preparing dinner one evening last week, the kids were playing super well together. Luke had wriggled our laundry bag out and Miriam jumped on top of it. Luke then proceeded to pull her through the apartment. I just love the little games they create all by themselves. Enjoy the clip!

Smells

A conversation with Luke last week:
Mom: "Luke, you smell like Teddy Grahams."
Luke: "Mom, you smell like armpits."
Thanks son.

Corey's Capes

While home, Luke and Miriam got a package in the mail. Inside were the coolest capes ever! Our friend Corey had made these awesome double-sided capes. Luke's cape is Superman and then Batman while Miriam's is Supergirl and a Princess. Luke and his cousin Kaitlyn had fun playing with the capes while we were still at Maw Maw's house. Now that we are back in Dominica, Luke and Miriam like to run/fly through the apartment with their capes on. Thanks so much Corey for making these for our kids! You are the best!

Home Again

After spending 3 weeks away from home, it was time to return to our everyday life. When we got home, Morgan looked so handsome! He just beamed to see us! Miriam only wanted to be held by him and Luke was so excited to pull everything out of our suitcases to show Daddy all the cool stuff we brought back. I will admit that I was so sad to say good-bye to my parents. They mean more and more to me each year. After warming up to my parents, the kids just loved being around them so much. Luckily we will see them again at Christmas.
But for now we are back in Dominica and everything is getting back to normal. Morgan has a big test, Luke goes back to preschool and I am just feeling pretty content with life. It was a much needed vacation!

April's Wedding

On Thursday, June 5th we left early in the morning to head to Salt Lake City, Utah for my little sister April's wedding.

I think I was the only one not sleeping at the beginning of our flight out of Raleigh. However, I am grateful that I caught this photo of my parents leaning on each for support as they slept. It was tender.

Miriam loved playing with Maw Maw and Paw Paw on the plane. She thought it was so cool to wear his hat...but only backwards. Later Luke traded spots with her and sat between them as the plane landed. I loved flying with my parents. They were such a great help with the kids and it gave me a much needed break.
Once we arrived in Salt Lake, April's sister-in-law treated us to a manicure and pedicure. It was amazing! After being in Dominica, my nails were in serious trouble. Here are my fingernails all painted up for the wedding!
Later in the evening on June 5th, we attended the Rehearsal Dinner for April and Robert's wedding. It was held on the 9th floor of the Joseph Smith Memorial Building. Robert's father-Jim- gave some great advice for the couple and even a few laughs.
Every time that Jim made the group laugh, Luke would laugh too...only longer and louder than the rest. Here he is laughing at jokes he did not understand!
Miriam enjoyed visiting with everyone and trying her hardest to be a big girl.
Afterwards, the kids posed for a few pictures with the Salt Lake temple behind them. I just love the SLC temple. I don't think there is another place on earth that means more to me since I served my mission and married my sweetheart there.
After the wedding on Friday, June 6th, April and Robert had a ring ceremony and reception at the Huntsman Cancer Institute by the University of Utah. Doesn't she look beautiful coming down the aisle with my Dad?

Luke was a ring bearer and Miriam the flower girl. I walked down the aisle with her as she casually dropped a few flower petals. I was April's matron of honor and so grateful to have been part of her special day. Jim also officiated at the Ring Ceremony since he is a judge down in St. George.
April and Robert enjoying their first dance as husband and wife.
Ready for the cake!
Mmmmmmm....
Congratulations April and Robert!