Gaylon's Painting

Gaylon White was a mighty special lady. She joined the Church of Jesus Christ of Later-day Saints at the age of 91. She had a vivacious spirit, a true ranch girl at heart. She took up painting in her mid 50's and we were lucky enough to be given this painting by her daughter after Gaylon passed away. Zach visited her house every week for 4 years listening to her many wonderful stories from the past and even bringing her stewed raisin cookies on occasion- her favorite. When he spoke at her funeral he made reference to this painting, likening her departure from this existence to the road. Gaylon isn't gone, she has just gone around the bend where we can't see her anymore until we reach the bend too. God speed Gaylon! We love you.

A Colorado Spring

It wasn't much snow, but if you gather it all up it is enough to make a snow man. One day it is 70 degrees and sunny, the next it is snowing. Some people don't like it,  but I do. Keeps it interesting. 

Tip toes

This is maybe my favorite picture I've taken in 2018. Alara is such an earnest little dish helper. She loves to be as independent as possible, which is a mixed blessing the I am running late. I can't help  but adore her determination to do things by herself like get dressed, buckle her own seat belt and put away the silverware. It's a fun age, these terrific twos. 

Clean up aisle 3

 This little peanut made a mess with the dog food but knew just what to do without me even asking. She has seen all her older siblings do it many times before. Grab a broom and start sweeping. Of course, that's not ALL you can do with a broom...

Touch Pizza

 This picture was taken while all the older children were at school and Lincoln and Alara were getting along quite nicely. Most of the time they are the best of friends. Lincoln calls it a "touch pizza" because two people make a pizza with their legs and then touch feet.  Their legs are so adorably short however, it doesn't leave much room for rolling. 

Together

I love it when they can find something to do all together. One of my favorite things about being a mother of a large family is actually watching them interact together all on their own. My kids may drive me nuts once in a while but they really are the best of friends. 

Lincoln's 4th light up birthday

 This little sunshine turned four on Thanksgiving so we celebrated a day early. He didn't seem to mind. We took a trip to the Chilson swim center and ate ice cream cake. Since he brings light to my  life, we gave him a little bit back- a flash light and light up car track found their way into his present stack. One of my favorite parts of the day is picking up Lincoln from preschool and holding his hand back to the car. "Lincoln, do you know who I love? YOU!" "Mom, do you know who I  love? YOU! You're my best." Lincoln is also beginning to read beginner phonetic books, zooms like a train with pistons pumping, makes friends wherever he goes, and enjoys music.