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!

Primary Temple Activity

Our kids were so excited to attend the Primary Activity at the Sacramento Temple.

 

Even Gabriel was in on the action.

 

Among other things, they made a temple out of sugar cubes and spoke to a couple who served in the temple.

Thank you for a wonderful activity!

Fingers & Toes

My in-laws are the best (there's my awesome mother-in-law Clista)!

Do you see me?

Do I look like I need some major pampering?

 

Yes!!!

 

Leah, my crazy sister-in-law in the zen pose is getting a leg massage by my equally nutty sister-in-law Rachel.  I love these girls!

 

Our barrage of beauty supplies.

Who knew we needed so much to look presentable!

 

 

The feast!

You know I'm addicted to food!

 

My sister-in-law Jessica getting her soak on while we all laughed and talked about who knows what!

Thank you Elizabeth for organizing this super-fun night.  And thanks to everyone for just being you.  I love being with sisters.  There's a spirit that's catching and it brings so much peace to the soul.

Loves

A father's kisses.

There's nothing like them.