I'm the mommy!

That's me. The mommy. I am a lot of other things, but this is the title that gives me the most satisfaction. Today Logan said, "I love you Mommy." I realized that it has been a long time since he, or any of the kids called me mommy. Usually I am just Mom. Not that "mom" is bad, it's just more mature, and it reminds me that my kids are growing up and getting older. I love seeing my kids grow, and develop, but I also cherish those days of their sweet babyhood. It passes much too quickly.

Today Camden said, "Uh-Oh!" Of course I was so proud of him. But, then I realize he's growing older, and soon these days are going to be a sweet memory. So for today- I am the mommy- and I'm happy to be just that.

Easter

Sunday was Easter Sunday. It was a beautiful and sunny day. The kids woke up early and did our annual Easter basket treasure hunt. They found their baskets with Lagoon passes and pictures of Jesus inside. They were so excited about their Lagoon passes, and can't wait to take advantage of them. Afterward we went to church, and I was actually able to stay in Sacrament meeting the entire time. I think that is a first since Camden was born. That afternoon we went to the Graham's house for dinner. Dinner was wonderful- and fun visiting with everyone. Nate and Melanie were in town, so it was good to see them, too. After dinner the adults had a discussion about prayer, and being mindful of people with specific needs in the family, and praying for them often. It was a pretty lowkey Easter, which is how we like it. We feel grateful to have so many wonderful family members, whom we love so much.

At night we try to do "high point, low point" with each family member taking a turn. We decided the low point, was when we thought one of the cousins, or our kids had stepped in dog poop, because it stunk so bad. We looked everywhere for the stink, when we realized it was Dillon's furry crocs. Needless to say, we threw those in the trash. :) Our high point was celebrating Jesus' resurrection, and spending time with family.

Spring Break Fun

Rylee and Logan sledding, behind the snowmobile. Morgan, Dillon, Logan, near the roof of the cabin.
Morgan & Dillon skiing.
The snow covered cabin.
Morgan, Olivia, Rachel and Chloe. (Notice the toes.)

We drove to Pagosa Springs, Colorado to meet up with some friends from Oklahoma for spring break. The kids were awesome on the drive. We worried about how Camden would do traveling, but he never even cried. Although it was a long drive, it seemed to pass pretty quickly. (I think because the kids were so good.) We got there on Wednesday night, and the kids instantly clicked again with their friends. There were 20 kids there, 10 boys, and 10 girls- so they all had lots of friends to play with. The highlights were, skiing, snowmobiling, the family dance party, playing games, staying up late, an Easter egg hunt, the hot springs, and seeing and feeding a fox.

Morgan was so sad that she doesn't get to see her friends more often. She loved every minute of her time with them. She loved dancing, and playing with her friends in the snow. She loved the late night talks, and games, and listening to Chloe and Olivia's music. She loved how her friends kept saying, " I love you- you are so funny." It made her feel so good. She also said she was glad she listened to the spirit telling her to go in the house, because she wasn't safe outside. It was a great learning experience for her.

Dillon had a great time playing pinball, snowmobiling, and having sleepovers with his friends. He got along great with Jake, and thinks he is "totally cool". He enjoyed getting to know the Cordy boys also. He remembers swimming with Tyler at the pool in his old neighborhood, and loved swimming with him again at the hot springs. He loved learning the new dances that Ryan taught him.

Logan didn't have a lot of boys his age, but still had a great time. (In fact- he probably liked it more that way, because he LOVES hanging out with the girls!) He is a flirt, and loved spending time with Rylee. I overheard him saying, " Rylee- you are the cutest friend that I know." He loved building a fort with Rylee and Alyssa. He also loved the Easter egg hunt and finding $7 in his eggs.

It was great to reconnect with friends that we have know for years. When we met the Orgills, Rachel was not even 2, and Jacob, a little baby. The Merkley's only had Ryan and Ashley (2), and the Brays had Chloe, and Olivia (not yet 1). Now some of these kids are teenagers and there are many more kids added to the mix. It was so fun to see how they have grown up and matured. They really are all great kids. I was so impressed on what good kids and great examples they are. (Their parents are pretty awesome, too!) We had a great time!

When Camden Smiles

Camden can always bring a smile to our faces. He is such a happy little guy. When he smiles he can light up a room and make the grumpiest of people grin. People stop me almost anytime I'm out, and comment on his smile. His laugh is also very contagious. The first time I heard him laugh, I cried, because it was so sweet. I do not cry easily, but his laugh and smile can do that to me. Today, I came in the room, and he was sitting inside the heater vent he had taken off, with the biggest smile on his face. He is such a joy, and full of life. We are so grateful for his sweet smile!