My Dad

My dad passed away last week. When my mom called to tell me I didn't cry, nor did I cry as I helped her plan his funeral or at the funeral itself. I know this might sound odd to some but I honestly felt happy for him. I knew he was finally free from the pain and suffering he was experiencing being here with us. I will miss him. He was a very kind, and generous man. He would always strike up conversations with strangers, especially strangers who seemed like they needed someone to notice them. He had a unique sense of humor and used it during the difficult times in life to help get through them. He always treated my mother and my siblings and I with respect, never yelling at us or making us feel unloved. He enjoyed learning and was very creative. He loved the gospel of Jesus Christ and lived its teachings. I know I will see him again one day and I will be sure to tell him "job well done Dad".

Don't let her fool you.

Underneath her sweet and innocent exterior lies a little girl that can bring grown women to tears and have them begging for mercy.

I really do love this beautiful girl, but it will be a miracle if I survive her.

Updates

Enzo was blessed on August 21, 2011 by his father. It was a beautiful blessing. I can't remember everything that was said but I do remember Peter blessing Enzo with a sense of duty. Duty to God, duty to his family and duty to his country. He also blessed him to be a good leader and a righteous example to those around him.

Isn't he adorable?

We were so grateful to have some of our family around for the special day. My brother, Forrest, and his wife, Angie, and their children, Ethan, Elise, Jonas and Wyatt were there. (What a good lookin' bunch!)

Peters mom, Mary Lou, his sister, Emily, and her son Emmett, were also able to come. (More good looks!)

We are so happy to have this little guy in our family. He gets more attention than I think he would like but he'll have to get use to it.

This past weekend we celebrated Peter's 36th birthday. I thought I would include a picture of him that was taken at his recent triathlon. Isn't he a hunk? I think so!

He unfortunately had to work on his birthday but came home to a delicious spaghetti and meatball dinner. And for dessert? Vanilla bean panna cotta with balsamic strawberries. Delicious!

For his gift this year the girls and I picked out a new remote control plane. He was so surprised and happy to get this new toy. Now if he can just find some time to learn how to use it and take it out for some test flights.

Other little tidbits:

Ayva received her Climbing Higher award in school for "doing excellent work in reading, spelling and math". She is loving 1st grade. She really likes her teacher and her class. She also enjoys recess and playing on the monkey bars.

Isabella also got her Climbing Higher award in school already. Hers was for "academic excellence". She is also happy to be back in school. She is participating in a running club and has signed up for the choir. And of course, she also loves recess and the monkey bars.

And last but definitely not least, Lilly has started preschool (sorry, I don't have a picture of that) and is taking swim lessons. She is enjoying preschool and all the new friends she is making. She wasn't as excited for swim lessons but is starting to change her mind.

As for me? I am just trying to keep it together. No pictures necessary.

Mister Charming

It's true, he is very charming. He definitely has me wrapped around his tiny baby finger. The proof? Well, we are two weeks into it and I am still nursing. (I hate nursing!) I allow him to interrupt my sleep multiple times a night to get up and feed him and then all throughout the day as well. I let him scream at me whenever he feels the need to unload on someone. (He has a lot of stress in his life you know?!) And the diapers...oh, the diapers...I am quick to change them upon his request because he does not like to sit in mess for even a second. He is very courteous though and has yet to spray his dear 'ol mom. (More charm!) I sure am loving having this little guy around.