Happy New Year

We spent New Year's at Grandma and Grandpa Elkington's. We watched a movie, and then when it was midnight, we set off a few fireworks! 

 

AUNT MICHELLE's CABIN
After visiting the Miller Family in Featherville, we went to Alpine to visit the Elkington Family.

 

Hailey, Amber, Piper, Cooper

The kids got a nice and easy ride, but our ride was meant to kill us! I truly thought I was going to die--either by laughing too hard, or by falling off.

FEATHERVILLE

 

A sheet of ice was outside the cabin due to a pipe breaking.

CHRISTMAS EVE & CHRISTMAS 2011

 

CHRISTMAS EVE:

Re-enactment of Christmas Story



Opening Christmas Pajamas on Christmas Eve

CHRISTMAS MORNING:

 

CLOGGING; November 23

MONSTER CONCERT

Hailey and Amber performed a piano piece with 18 other pianist. They worked for months on perfecting their individual parts. On the day of the performance, they met with the other pianist and competed for the GRAND PIANO. (Only the best teams would play on the Grand Piano.) Hailey and Amber were selected for the GRAND, and that evening they played completely flawless with 19 other pianist! It was amazing to hear 10 pianos all on the same beat!

...the end of EARLY THANKSGIVING,

and one more thing to be GRATEFUL

Earlier in October, Jolene was hospitalized and diagnosed with E-coli. After receiving treatment in Twin Falls, it was decided that she needed to be transferred to Salt Lake City for more in depth treatment. Every night our little family prayed for a miracle. Bryan and I tried to remain positive for the sake of our children; however, our worry showed in our faces and in our voices. One night after the kids were tucked into bed, I heard crying from the girl's room. When I went to investigate I found Amber crying for her grandma. We talked for a while, and then said a prayer. We also placed Jolene's name in the temple, so that there could be more people praying on her behalf...
We were not ready to lose our grandma, mother, and friend. There were moments when this fear seemed to be close; however, Jolene is a fighter, and she fought to survive.
WE ARE GRATEFUL. SO VERY GRATEFUL that grandma is still with us! WE feel so blessed!

With Grandma not feeling well, we decided to rake her leaves before leaving town:

EARLY THANKSGIVING CONTINUED...

“Each family prayer, each episode of family scripture study, and each family home evening is a brushstroke on the canvas of our souls. No one event may appear to be very impressive or memorable. But just as the yellow and gold and brown strokes of paint complement each other and produce an impressive masterpiece, so our consistency in doing seemingly small things can lead to significant spiritual results. ‘Wherefore, be not weary in well-doing, for ye are laying the foundation of a great work. And out of small things proceedeth that which is great’ (D&C 64:33).”

David A. Bednar, “More Diligent and Concerned at Home,” Ensign, Nov. 2009, 19-20

I am grateful for the moments shared with family. Early Thanksgiving is like family home evening with more people to love.

Early Thanksgiving @ The Miller's

Every year we have an EARLY THANKSGIVING with the Miller Family, which allows us to spend Thanksgiving with both sides of the family! I am grateful for family, and the love we share. We had a great time...simply spending time together.

I AM GRATEFUL:

My Savior

The Gospel of Jesus Christ

The Book of Mormon

My Husband, and Best Friend

My Children

My Family

My Home

Love

Lessons Learned

The Plan of Salvation

Giggles

Memories

Time Shared with Loved Ones

Birthdays

Holidays

Traditions

General Conference

Callings

Friends

My list of gratitude could truly go forever. I am grateful. I often feel that I do not share my gratitude enough. I pray that I can express it more, and that I will remember to express it more. I want to be the type of person that shows and expresses gratitude in all aspects of my life.

~FAMILY PICTURES 2011~
My dear friend, Heather Sali, took our pictures this year. I am so grateful to her  for sharing her talent with us! 

They melt my heart!

More Family Pictures...

I am so blessed to have my best friend as my eternal companion!

I absolutely adore my two girls!