October 9, 2010
I have an elder brother who until just recently has not been interested in many of the lasting joys that accompany membership in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. However, slowly his disinterest turned to interest, and a few weeks ago my dear brother and his beautiful wife were sealed in the temple with their two children. I can't begin to express the feelings that accompanied this marvelous event. It truly was a sacred moment in our family. After the sealing, I asked my sister-in-law what it was that made the difference for her and her family. She said that it started with a simple goal--a baby step. As a family, they made a goal to read The Book of Mormon in a year. She said that at times it was difficult. She remembers many mornings when no one wanted to rise for early morning scripture study, but through perseverance day by day this baby step turned into something more than a simple goal. The seed planted by the word of God, began to enlarge their souls, and by the end of the year my brother received the priesthood, and he and his wife were sealed in the temple for time and all eternity. My sister-in-law said that without scripture study, they would not have made their covenants in the temple.

I am so grateful for the doctorine of eternal families. I am grateful to know that I can--and will be with my family forever!

~Each Life that Touches Ours For Good~

Jason Fisher is a pillar of strength. In his fight against cancer, he displayed the strength of character that we all strive to exhibit. He was not angry. He was determined. He fought cancer with faith, determination, and with courage. When others would cry, he would build them, and encourage them. He was a rock. When Jason's tumor resurfaced after a year of being cancer free, I faltered--I cried. I lost some hope, and I lost a bit of faith. Jason did not. He once again demonstrated Christ-like attributes as he calmed and reassured his loving family and friends. As the months passed, and the cancer started taking the upper hand, Jason remained determined. And through his example, more heroes stepped in to take the lead. His dear wife, Heather, was strong and courageous. Day in and day out she cared for him. She loved him. Slowly Jason began needing help in almost every area of his life, and Heather was there to offer it. I watched her as she spoke to him--knowing that he was unable to respond. I watched her as she kissed his eyebrow--knowing that he could not return her affection. I watched her as she patiently brushed his teeth, fed him, and spoke sincere words of comfort and love, and through hit all--he could not respond.

Jason and Heather are two people who I consider to be heroes. When they were dealt a difficult hand, they faced it with courage and grace. They showed love and patience during a time when it would have been easy to give up. Our character is molded by the everyday little decisions we make--we become who we are by how we choose to respond during life's difficulties. Each choice either builds our character, or diminishes our character. Heather and Jason have chosen the better part. And for that example, they have become heroes in my eyes. I too, want to emulate their strength in character. I too, want to stand strong in the face of trials. I too, want to be all that my Lord and Savior need me to be.

Jason passed away on Sunday. He fought a good fight. I will miss him. And yet, somehow I know he is happier. I know that he has finally found peace, and his battle with cancer is over--he endured to the end.

On Jason's birthday, Heather asked friends and family to share with Jason our favorite memory...I would like to share those thoughts once again...

Jason,
It has been difficult choosing just one memory. I feel I have a thousand little memories that encompass who you are. I have memories of seeing you at the book store while Heather and I went on a bike ride. I have memories of you checking on Heather while she was at my house. Then I have memories of you helping me when Heather wasn't home--whether it was the car, or the computer, I knew I could come to your house for help. And as I think of each of these little memories, I remember your smile, and a twinkle in your eye. All of these memories are simple neighborly memories that encompass who you are; however, my fondest memory exemplifies just that, and much, much more. My fondest memory was in the midst of trial, and although it was not a "fond" time, my memory is sweet because of the love I felt from you. It was the night I came to your house seeking to offer comfort, and in reality you offered comfort to me. I had thought my emotions were under control, and yet as I walked into your living room--I couldn't help my tears. Without hesitation you wrapped your arms around my shoulders, and offered words of encouragement. You were a rock. You never faltered. You were steadfast. And through everything you have endured--you have shown this amazing strength of character. You have found laughter in difficulty. You have found positives in the face of trials. You have found the silver lining! Your strength is an amazing example to me, which I am striving to emulate. I look at both you and Heather, and I feel amazingly blessed to have such amazing neighbors, friends, and much, much more--family! I have found family in the two of you, and I am so blessed because of it! There is a church song that states, "each life that touches ours for good, reflects thine own great mercy, Lord; Thou sendest blessings from above, thru words and deeds of those who love...what greater gift dost though bestow, what greater goodness can we know, than Christ-like friends, whose gentle ways, strengthen our faith, enrich our days." I will forever be grateful to my Heavenly Father for sending me you! We are not neighbors by accident.
Happy Birthday!

Love, Carrie

...I am so grateful to the plan of salvation. I know I will see Jason again! Without a doubt--I know it! And so, this is not good-bye--but a small detour on life's trail...until we meet again, Jason Fisher!

~Field Trip to CELEBRATION PARK~
September 23, 2010
We had a great day learning about Early Civilization. We learned about the railroad, hunting techniques, and hieroglyphs. We even got to experience some of the old ways. Even with all the amazing learning, my favorite part of the day was still being with Hailey all day long!

~HAUNTED BRIDGE/ONCE A RAILROAD~

~FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL~

I remember when I was little loving the first day of school. I loved to dress-up in new clothes, do my hair pretty, and see my friends. I loved using new school supplies...my crayons, pencils, and markers all for the first time! I simply loved the first day of school!

Now, as a mother, I dread the first day of school. If I could keep my children home with me--I would. I have considered home schooling on more than one occasion; however, each time I consider the possibility--I simply know it isn't the right choice for our family. There are lessons at school that I know that my children need to learn. The tough lessons. The ones that make a mother's heart ache. And maybe that is why I hate watching their little backs as they walk away... Maybe it is because I know that they will struggle... With that being said, I also know that with each struggle, they are becoming refined. Sometimes I wander as I send my kids off to school, if it is somewhat similar to how Heavenly Father feels as He sends us here. And just as I am sure our Father in Heaven hopes we are prepared for our life here on Earth, I too--pray that my children are ready for the lessons they will learn at school.

FOURTH GRADE

FIRST GRADE

~Girls Camp~

After weeks of preparation, girls camp arrived! With excitement and anticipation we headed to our campsite. And so it began...a week full of laughter and tears. Laughter for all of the good times, and tears for the spirit which was felt. Between hiking and swimming in the day, and basking in the spirit at night--girls camp was definitely a success! I am so grateful for the opportunity that I have to be able to associate with these young women on a weekly basis--they truly are divine!

(Sara, Bre, Sister Dodds, Cheyenne, Hailee, Sydnee, Sister Miller, Carly, Sister Forsberg, & Brooke)
And so the week begins...

~Hike~

~Jumping Off the Rock at Popsicle Pond~

(From Back to Front--Sister Dodds, Sister Hilton, Carly, Sister Forsberg, Alili, Tiffany, Bishop Forsberg, Bre, Sarah, Cheyenne, Sister Nestler, Hailee, Brooke, & Sydney)
~Boat Races~

FOURTH OF JULY
This year the Fourth of July landed on a Sunday, so we decided rather than celebrate elsewhere, we would have a celebration right at home. To prepare for our celebration, I bought Fourth of July streamers, hats, and crepe paper. When the "big" day finally arrived, we decorated our bikes and created our very own "bike parade"--complete with music. We rode through the neighborhood playing patriotic songs on our IPOD. (I think I was the only one that could hear the music...from my perspective, it added a nice touch.) Our kids wanted to invite the entire neighborhood, and so we began inviting... After a few stops, we agreed that we needed to continue on with our parade; however, the plans for next year have already begun... We agreed that next year we would invite the ENTIRE neighborhood, and we also agreed that next year we would play music that EVERYONE could hear! This year our neighborhood had the best bike parade ever! ...next year it will be even better!

Miller Family Reunion

MILLER FAMILY REUNION
Every summer we cherish memories with the Miller Family! Words cannot describe the moments shared. Simply saying "boat races, game playing, swimming, and eating"...cannot provide justice for the amazing FUN had by all, nor can it describe the memories that will last a lifetime! We love our Family! We are so grateful for the time we share together! We are so blessed!

Somehow I have the reputation of loving "naps". As a joke, my mother-in-law bought me a special gift...to help me with my favorite past time.

~PONDEROSA STATE PARK~
What is it about camping that brings you closer to God, and closer to those you are camping with...-the mountain air, the smell of pine trees,the beautiful landscape...? Whatever the answer--I love how camping touches my spirit! This year we went camping with some good friends to Ponderosa State Park. We had a fabulous time chatting around the campfire, making crafts with the kids, and swimming by the lake!


~KID CRAFT~

~BRIDGES, AMBER, and MAKAYLA played for hours in the sand and water! They had so much fun!~



~The girls had so much fun creating pictures with nature!~

~ELKINGTON FAMILY REUNION & Birthday's!!!~

The last few days of our vacation were spent at my sister's cabin in Alpine, Wyoming for the first annual Elkington Family Reunion. We had so much fun playing games, eating cake (it was Easton's & Hailey's birthdays), and hiking through the wilderness! Every day families within the family took assignments of either cooking a fantastic meal, planning an outstanding activity, or preparing for a nightly devotional. We ate like kings and queens, and we played harder than ever! At the close of each day the devotionals added a perfect ending to a perfect day. From Silly Olympics to Outdoor Scavenger Hunts to Family Devotionals...memories were made that will last a lifetime! I am grateful to family traditions, and I am grateful to this new tradition on the Elkington side!

~Happy Birthday Hailey~

~Happy Birthday Easton and Hailey (same day)~

~Outdoor Scavengar Hunt~

~Pop Explosion~

~JACKSON HOLE, TARGHEE, & BAR-T 5 Wagon Ride~

We spent our second day of vacation with some long time friends (Liz and Steven Dalley). We were able to visit Targhee National Forest. The mountains were majestic. It was raining, so we did not spend much time out of the cars, but the drive was worth the view!

After visiting Targhee, we spent the remainder of our time inside candy stores, or other various shops in Jackson. In the evening were able to go to the Bar-T 5 show. It was fantastic! We were able to ride in a wagon, eat good food, and listen to music! Better than that--my cousin, Chase Elkington, played a lead role in the program. My children thought they were related to a "star".

~JUNE 9; YELLOWSTONE PARK~
We had a family reunion in Alpine, and decided to go to Yellowstone Park on the way. We had a fantastic time! The kids loved seeing the geysers, the animals, and the mud pots. Along with seeing amazingly breathtaking sights, we enjoyed holding hands as we walked along the boardwalks, talking and laughing at silly jokes, shaking with fright as a buffalo walked within feet of where we were standing, and laughing (...well, most of us were laughing) as we ran to seek shelter from a sudden down pour. Family bonding was had by all, and we were extremely sad to leave the park at the close of the day. We had no idea that we would need more time in the park... And so the plans are beginning... YELLOWSTONE NEXT YEAR!

~OLD FAITHFUL~

~Buffalo on OUR Boardwalk~

~Castle Geyser~

~TWO cute BOYS~

~Grotto Geyser~

~Morning Glory~
Morning Glory was a looooonnnnnngggggggg walk. However, it was one of my favorite sites.

~Seeking Shelter from a Sudden Down Pour~
The trees did not offer much as far as "protection" from the summer thunderstorm. The ranger was running through the park telling all the tourists to seek shelter back at the lodge (they were afraid of someone getting struck by lightening). As much as we wanted to seek shelter from the rain--the lodge was still quite a distance, and running with three kids all struggling to "want" to walk/run another step...takes longer than wanted.

~Yellowstone Lower Falls~

~KINDERGARTEN GRADUATION~

Congratulations, AMBER!

~OUR SOLAR SYSTEM~

Hailey performed two major roles in a school play. The play was all about our solar system. She played the roles of "Earth" and "Saturn's Rings". She did a fantastic job! It was so fun watching her perform with ease and confidence.

I loved watching her perform Earth! Throughout the entire performance she smiled from ear to ear, and presented herself with such amazing confidence! She was breathtaking!

BALLET
Amber loves ballet! I don't think she loves ballet, because of ballet itself... I think the reason she loves ballet so much is because she loves the process of a ballet performance. She loves to dress-up, wear a "little" make-up, and perform in front of a big audience. She thinks the whole experience is thrilling! OH! ...and she loves that mom buys her flowers every year--it makes her feel special!

~Amber and Londyn~

~FEATHERVILLE~
Last May we went to the cabin with the Forsberg's and the Pruett's. We had a great time riding four-wheelers, playing in the stream, and simply relaxing in the great outdoors. We are so grateful to be able to "getaway" once in a while.

~Amber, Cybil, Nick~

~Jake~

~Jake, Wesley, Jackson, & Nick~

ELEVEN YEARS and counting...
On April 30, Bryan and I celebrated 11 years together! Words cannot describe how I feel about my husband. I love him more and more each and every day. I love the way he smiles at me. I love the sparkle in his captivating blue eyes. I love his constant patience, his ability to calm me in any storm, his loving guidance...I love everything about him...

I remember eleven years ago when Bryan and I were moments from being sealed for time and for all eternity, the sealer asked me if I was prepared for imperfections in my future husband. I remember feeling very mature as I answered in the affirmative. He then turned to Bryan and asked a similar question, which Bryan promptly answered in an overly exaggerated, shocked at even being asked such a question, sort of way...which, immediately brought laughter from all present, and definitely made me look bad:). Now eleven years later if I were to be asked that same question, my answer would reflect a tone closer to the answer Bryan gave (even though his answer was in jest). When I married him eleven years ago, I never dreamed I could love him as much as I do now, and I am positive that I will be even more surprised at my feelings ten years from now. I have never been so blessed as I am being married to my Bryan. Eleven years ago I was naive, and I think a bit clueless...now when I think I have somewhat of a clue (at least I hope), I am astounded at how blessed I am to have snagged such an amazing guy! WHEW.

IN CELEBRATION OF ELEVEN YEARS...WE WENT TO SUN VALLEY, IDAHO!!!

Bryan and I had so much fun goofing around on the ice. Sometimes we balanced rather well, but most of the time...

my fanny was becoming acquainted with the ice.



We also went roller blading...

...again, my fanny making introductions. (I totally deserved this fall, because I had just finished laughing at Bryan for "almost" falling.)

I almost ran over a snake while roller blading. It still makes my insides cringe if I imagine what would have happened, if it would have happened. Thank goodness squished a 'la snake was not on the menu!

We started roller blading just before mile marker #4, and Bryan turned to me and said, "if we make it to mile marker #7, we will have gone too far." We quickly promised each other to keep an eye out for the mile markers. Several good laughs latter, we remembered our promise, and we diligently began looking for the next mile marker. As the next mile marker came into view, we realized our folly (or our forgetfulness). We turned back at mile marker #8. All in all we roller bladed nearly nine miles. By the time we arrived at the car, we were exhausted, yet content. We had so much fun simply enjoying each other's company!

I am so grateful to my mother-in-law for her willingness to watch our kiddos, so that Bryan and I could enjoy a weekend celebrating the beginning of our family!