First Priesthood Session

We have a fun tradition in our family. When one of our boys turns twelve years old and receives the Priesthood, we make sure they are able to attend their first General Conference Priesthood Session in Salt Lake City at the Conference Center. Even though I get a little bit jealous staying home, I know what a special experience they get to have with their dad. It was Noah's turn this year. We cut it kind of close, but were able to wrangle enough tickets for Dad, Noah, and both Grandpas to attend together. They sure lucked out by getting to sit in the section reserved for General Authorities' families! Noah even got to meet Elder Russell M. Nelson; what a treat! I am so proud of my handsome boy and love my sweet husband for taking the time to make this Conference tradition happen.

Pumpkin Patch

Isaac's preschool class had been counting down the days until their field trip to the pumpkin patch!

They were so excited to pick their very own pumpkin.

Isaac was so proud of the little pumpkin he decorated. We came home with five BIG pumpkins, too, that had been slightly damaged by the hailstorm (only $1 each!) for the rest of the family.

These are some of the kids in Isaac's class: Mallory (Isaac's best friend at school), Noah, Kaylee, and Landon.

The hayride was a highlight of the day! Ms. Cheri kept them entertained with stories, games, and learning all along the way.

The kids loved seeing the big fat pig, as well as a cow, horse, chickens, and turkey.

Journey, Mallory, Isaac, Kayla, and Joseph.

At the end of the day the kids did the hay maze about 5 times. They had so much fun trying to find the way out. What a great day at the farm!

I love Brother, Yessiree

Jacob and Isaac found a picture of the two of them from four years ago and decided to re-create it. They were so sweet then, and are so cute now!

Outside

It's becoming bearable to be outside occasionally. We're starting to reconnect with nature and making some fun little discoveries.

Jeremy found this tiny little gecko in the backyard one night. Jacob and Isaac were thinking about keeping him in the leopard gecko cage until we suggested he might get eaten. So they just played with him for a little while and let him go.

After we finally cut down the towering sunflowers and most of the hollyhocks we found this little surprise zinnia doing its best to grow in the shade. Since it has been getting sunlight it has done really well. We just can't wait for winter weather!

Mesa High Marching Band

Both Spencer and Noah were able to participate in the Mesa High Marching Band night. Band members from the Junior Highs that feed into Mesa were invited to learn some music and spend the afternoon immersed in the marching band before performing at the football game that night. They had so much fun! Spencer got the golden drums again and marched on the field, while Noah played bells in the "pit." They both did such a super job.