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.

Portland Trip part 2

 

Portland Trailblazers game, bowling, games with everyone, voodoo donuts, The Screen Door for brunch, book store, thrifting and hanging out. It was a 3 night little stay, but we tried to squeeze in as much as we could. 

Portland Memory Lane Tour 2023

 During Christmas break we had everyone at home so we decided to to a trip to Portland to show Nona some of the things we did when we traveled with Phil for work 15 years ago. We invited the Pace's and Dahlke's who some joined for some of the time. The weather was rainy, but we had a great time. We went to Big Al's, swam (at a rented house pool) played games, watched the Barbie movie, walked and saw some sights. I love having everyone together and it was fun to stay in a big house near Portland. 

House Painting 2023

 We got the new windows installed in August and then quickly went to work on painting the house. We had a lot of scraping and repair work to do so we didn't get it all finished before the rain came and had a few crazy days in Septemeber, October and a few dry days in November to get it done. I love the way it looks with the new roof, windows and paint. We will work on the cabin this coming summer and that should be easier. The scaffolding this time around was so much better. It was wider and more stable. Nona loved getting up there with me. Paige came and helped me paint. Lyla helped for some money.