Christmas Painting

This year we painted on Christmas Day. Cannon graduated from BYU-I in December and has moved back to work at Amazon starting in January. Miya was in Boise for Christmas this year, but Ciara came over and painted with us. The theme for this year was "things you find in the garden". I, of course, was the best at it...never! I did however participate and that is worth something. It is always fun to see how talented my family is each year.

Phil

Cannon

Lyla

Ciara

Nona

Jamie

 

No Rain

 
 No rain on New Year's Day so we got out and went for a walk at Point Ruston. It is always so nice to have the sun out in the winter. 

Rewards

Nona asked if she could earn a trip to Catapult at the Lakewood Towne Center if she read 15 chapter books. I had to approve the books so they weren't super easy and she tracked them all and finished in time for a trip over Christmas break. She had a great time playing and was super sweaty by the time we left.  

Books: Smile, Sisters, Tale of Emily Windsnap, Goldie, Bentley, Angel, Jack, (Puppy Place Books), Twin Tastrophy, Love Bites, Take Two, The Bat Pack, Ellen Tebbits, Charlotte's Web, Star Friends, Glory Be

 

Nona's Baptism

 Nona was baptized on her birthday and was excited to give everyone a water bottle sticker to help them remember her special day. Aunt Amber gave the opening prayer, Andra led the music, Sister Banks (a wonderful missionary who served in our ward months ago) came and played the piano. Nana gave a talk about baptism, Boppa and Lyla were the witnesses, I spoke about the Holy Ghost, Phil did the baptism and the confirmation and Emma said the closing prayer. It was a very spiritual day. Nona loved having so many people from the ward and family and friends come to support her. Even the Chan's came from Bellevue to be there for her. We fed people lasagna, salad and breadsticks after. Boppa made 80 cookies for everyone to make an ice cream sandwich. 

Nona had asked Geneva Smith to give a prayer, but she got the times mixed up. She felt so bad about it. We went over to check on her after because Jim has not been doing well. Geneva cried and was so sad to have missed it. They are great friends and pen-pals. I love their bond. I can't believe my baby is 8 years old. I sure do love her and am so glad she can have the companionship of the Holy Ghost to help her through life. I am so grateful for the Gospel of Jesus Christ and the promises he gives us when we choose to live a covenant relationship with Him. 

Sisters

 I love moments like this. There was so much laughter. I'm so glad these two are friends and really enjoy spending time together.