Giving Thanks

On this holiday my mind and heart are full. So many things have happened that let me know I have father in heaven who is looking out for me and loves me.

I am thankful to all my friends for your comments, emails, prayers, and love. You have shown me that even though we don't talk much or haven't seen each other for some time, that friendship knows no bounds.

I am thankful to my extended family for coming to be with me and my husband and children. Not only are they watching over me but keeping my children entertained while I help out my mom.

I am thankful to live in a place that is so bright and cheerful. It really is paradise here and it helps to know that not matter how I feel inside the sunshine will warm me.

I am thankful for the knowledge I have that my family will be together again someday. I wouldn't know how to cope with my dad's passing if I didn't take comfort that he still lives. I know he's looking out for us and that he expects us to do what is right so that we may be worthy to join him.

I am thankful for my mom. She has shown such Christ-like love for others during this time. While grieving she still makes sure that she bears her testimony to others and lets them know that she loves them. She is looking for ways to serve and not just be served. She still wants to know how we are doing and making sure we are eating right :) (If you know me you know that I don't have the best eating habits)

I am thankful for the new life that has come to our family during this difficult time. Though it was not planned or expected I believe it was sent to bring us comfort. While we may have loss one life we were blessed with another.

I am thankful for my eternal companion. He is my rock. He has helped me through all this. It is a comfort to know that he is home caring for the boys and will be there to hear me vent at the end of my day. He also knows me well enough to give me a pep talk when I need it and what to say to keep me going.

Finally I am thankful for my dad. He has always inspired me to be better and told me that I could do anything. He pushed me to be my best and to reach for high goals even if I didn't want to. He was ever the missionary. He loved the gospel and showed it through his church service, testimony and living a righteous life. While I will miss his earthly presence and council I know that he will still direct me through my life.

My Dad

This is short since we are still dealing with funeral plans and people in town. My dad passed away Friday November 20,2009 in the morning. While we are sad we know he's in a better place. I am SO thankful to my family members and friends who have rallied so quickly behind us as we go through this time. We are doing well and just taking things a day at a time. I'm so grateful for my dad and the endless things he taught me. My William has a great man to look up to. I love you daddy.
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More Matthew

Helping himself to the candy bowl

Get comfortable in bed


With great grandma

He's scooting now. It's really cute and he only scoots when he's trying to get toys.

"Singing" himself to sleep.

One for Matthew

(He's wearing William's underwear so he can't pull his diaper off)

Being the second child, Matthew often gets over looked. He has been so good to us as we've adjusted to life with two rascals. He's currently in the "hold me stage" where he screams bloody murder if you put him down even for a minute.

(Here he is getting his first taste of baby food. Notice how he opens his mouth and has his arms out. That's how excited he is about meal times.)
But once he's held, feed and clean he's the happiest baby around. We love his smile and little teeth.

He has the sweetest personality. He loves to throw his head back and laugh. We love our Matthew and are glad he's part of our family.