Valentines Day!

I have fond memories of my mom making a big deal out of Valentine's Day. It wasn't every year, but I love to recall the feelings her special surprises induced. What simple joy to find unexpected tangible emblems of her love for us!

This year I wanted to do the same thing for my family, actually I've been meaning to for the last couple years. I was going to do it by myself but life is busy and I was running behind and had to recruit my amazing husband for some help. We went to work late Friday night and then on Saturday morning our kids woke up to a fabulous snowfall and to this...


And they came running!


Here's a classic expression.


We had raspberry lemon muffins, juice and cheap chocolate for breakfast.



Later that morning Russ took Naomi out for her "special day." They went to Elaine's French Bakery in Orem, which is a must visit for anyone living in Utah County. They took some treats over to Russ' grandparents, built snow chickens and spent some time looking through Grandpa's amazing museum. I love that Russ got a picture of Naomi hugging her great-grandmother. She gives the warmest hugs ever!



After Mason's nap we took advantage of the fresh powder and went sledding.


And it was lovely.

Six Years Old!

Naomi celebrated her 6th birthday today! Before our very eyes she is changing from a little girl to a little lady. She gets smarter, sweeter, taller and funnier every day. I really can't get over how much she has grown. We love her creativity, her sense of humor, her willingness to serve and genuine compassion. I feel that many of her strengths are my weaknesses and I'm humbly learning from her good example. Naomi is quickly making her place in this world and she has undeniably claimed a very special place in our hearts.

*kiss*

February Birthdays!

Naomi and her cousin Gavin (James and Jennifer's boy) share birthdays. Savannah's birthday is only ten days earlier, so we celebrated them all together in one smashing occasion. Ages 2, 4 and 6 they make a cute bunch.

Sweet Savannah is Four!

Happy Birthday Savannah! Our sweet angel is four. We celebrated by "blendering" a birthday cake in the morning and had a simple family birthday party in the evening. She loved her cake and presents.


Just look at this enthusiasm...

This fun energy is just part of who she is. Savannah is so happy with life and anxious to share her joy with those around her.

To finish the evening we watched a slideshow of Savannah's first four years.


We love her and are so thankful for the sweet sunshine she brings into our home.