Mahaney Park, Phase II

While Samuel was at school I took the kids to the park and we were surprised to see that Phase II had been completed!  Ava and Iris were so gung-ho about it all that they got into a fight right off the bat and landed themselves on time-out. 

It made for a nice photo opp!

 

 

Bella quickly discovered the web...

 

...and Iris chilled in the swings!

 

 

 

It was a lot of fun and a great way to burn off some of that energy before bedtime!

The...and 'A'...Friend

Does it get any better than watching your oldest son read "The Friend" to your youngest son?

It really doesn't!

Taco Soup

There's nothing like coming home from church and sitting down to a warm meal of spicy Taco Soup!  I can't believe that one day my baby boy will be sitting at the table, just like dad, asking me for seconds, and maybe thirds!

Family Temple Trip

We decided to spend this Saturday visiting the Sacramento Temple.

 

It was a beautiful day, and we were excited to take some family photos.

 

I can't tell you what Owen was thinking here, but I love his expression!

 

President Monson said,
“As we touch the temple, the temple will touch us.”

 

It truly is a house of the Lord.

 

 

Walking the grounds at dusk is a must.

 

 

 

I am so grateful for the Lord's Houses that are once again upon the earth.  The peace that is found herein is like no other, and I cherish my opportunity to serve, learn, and grow through visiting the temple.

“Choose you this day whom ye will serve; … but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.”

Joshua 24:15

Chinese Take-out

We surprised Dad with Chinese takeout for lunch, and Gabriel watched on as we munched on orange chicken and broccoli beef.  It was a fun afternoon and we enjoyed spending some time together.

Owen's Storytime

Gabriel is one lucky boy! 

His big brother Owen loves to read to him, and oftentimes I'll find him talking softly to Gabriel and reading him stories.

Birthday Wishes

For Iris' 4th birthday I let her and Owen decorate the birthday cake.

 

 

They were so excited and did a really great job!

 

Can't forget the sprinkles!

 

Samuel with the kids.

 

Mom too.

 

What a beautiful girl!

 

Iris,
Your mom and dad love you so much!  I still remember the day you came into this world!  You were absolutely beautiful then, and you remain so today.  You were so clingy-you didn't even like Dad!-and yet, over time, you gradually opened up.  You are an absolute delight and we are so grateful to be your mom and dad!

Bodega Bay

Exploring Bodega Bay was a first for us, and visiting this beautiful spot gave us some much needed family-time.  Everything was stunning and we can't wait to go back and stay over-night.

Play time!

My son.

All smiles...and a funny face.

 

Don't you dare, Bella!

 

If you're being kind you're thinking, "Lucky Olivia!".

If not, well... :)

 

The set-up.

 

Our tradition: 

Writing in the sand.

 

 

Ava's tradition:

Wet!

 

Gabriel soaking up those rays.

 

Here's Owen hating the sand. 

Yes, he really, really dislikes it.

 

Sand soup!

 

 

 

 

Me and my girls! 

Hey!

Where's my Iris?

 

Who doesn't like throwing wet sand?

 

If you've never been, check -it out!

Just bring a sweater...or two!