Summer coming to a close

Well, as I've been holed up in the house with a newborn, the kids have done a few more things to wrap up their summer. The boys participated in a martial arts camp. The youngest was even able to rise up a belt rank (it wasn't an option for our oldest). And then Dad took the kids on a hike to "The Y" on Y Mountain one morning. Other than that, they've filled their days with friends and fun. School Starts this Monday...we can't believe another summer is gone. I'm actually sad to see them go back to school (it kind of means more organization and work for me to do...lessons, homework, carpools, schedules....)

Turning 12...Turning Point

I can't believe we have a 12 year old child already. But this boy couldn't make us more proud. He's so smart, loving, responsible, caring, honest, faithful and dependable we couldn't ask for more. Thanks for being such a great son!

Celebrating with friends at JDawg's followed by a movie. Thanks, Dad, for taking on the 12 year old birthday party and a car full of 12 year old boys while mom was home with the 1 week old baby. Fun times!

That night we had the family over for some presents, cake and ice cream...a short but sweet celebration.

And here's our boy all suited up. Very handsome. This is the Sunday after his birthday...after he'd been ordained to the Priesthood. It was very nice. We couldn't be more proud.

The Birth

Here are some photos from the baby's birth...

Whew! He made it!

Ahh! Now he can relax.

Mommy and son.

Daddy and his new little boy.

Wow! 4 kids now. Happy family.

Dressed to go home from the hospital. July 30, 2010

New Baby Arrival

We welcome our new baby boy to the family. Born on the 28th, of July at 4:10 pm, 7lbs 14oz, 20" long. He's an angel!



These photos were taken by Rhett Olson Photography

Father & Son Hike

Our oldest son went with his dad on his first backpacking trip ever. They were ambitious and tackled a three day hike in Death Hallow. Both boys had a great time and my husband now has a new hiking buddy. Enjoy the slideshow.

See a larger version here (click on the little icon in the lower right corner of the video and watch it full screen)...YOU TUBE VIDEO

Or watch the smaller size here (but you can still click on the 4 arrows icon in the right corner to watch larger) ...

Hot Air Balloon Ride

Last Saturday we were able to help my mom check something off her "bucket list." She's always wanted to ride in a hot air balloon. Even though the ride was short and we were tethered to the ground (not really rising above 100-150 feet), it was great. I even climbed into the basket, which was tricky at 37 1/2 weeks pregnant.

Make-A-Wish Foundation

Our oldest son's best friend was able to have a wish granted. He has a degenerative muscle condition. But without going into details about that, I'll just share some pictures from the party where his wish was granted. We went up to the Make-A-Wish Foundation Building in Salt Lake and had a great time celebrating. He wished for Star Wars Lego Sets. And boy did he get it...along with a million Star Wars characters to deliver them. It was a great experience.