Life Lessons

Fingernails no more

There is moments that really teach valuable lessons.  This morning I heard Julianna crying when she woke up.  Elijah came in to tell me that Marley had chewed up Emily's (American Girl Doll) hand.  My heart sank because she had been taking such good care of her up until this moment.  The sad part is that Emily was right next to Julianna as she was every night, so it made it worse that Marley went into their room in the early morning to go to town on her hand.  It was a sad morning to say the least.  But as I started to talk to her about this, she said that she didn't want Marley anymore.  I had to tell her that we all make mistakes and when this stuff happens, even though it is hard that we need to forgive.  It took a couple minutes for her to realize that Marley is a dog and that is what dogs do.  I had to put in that she does things that ruins my things and I don't want to give her up.  I just have to move on and know that we love Marley and we just have to really teach him not to chew anymore.  It was such a powerful way to teach forgiveness.  She quickly made up with Marley and now they are happy.  We will just have to look into getting Emily's hand fixed.  I hear through the grapevine that there is a hospital that these sweet little doll's can get repaired.  Till then, we will keep her safe from Marley's ferocious teeth.

Sleepy

This is what happens when Dad does the bedtime. 

Marly Moments

Don't sleep and drive. 

Roscoe and Marley.  Best Buds and Neighbors!

First Good Haircut!

Handsome little pair

We have really enjoyed Marley as part of this family.  He has such a great personality.  He is great with the kids and has been a great doorbell.  He is adored by all that meet him expect Grandma.  We love his sweet face and hope he sticks it out with us for a while!

Goodbye's are not my favorite!!

Farewell my dear friend!!  I will miss you!!

I remember when I first met my dear friend Michelle.  It was at church.  She had a little boy the same age as my little baby, so of course I was interested in getting to know her.  We found out that our babies were only five days apart.  It was kismet.  Through the six years of our friendship, we have seen our families grow to three each with very similar ages.  We have babysat for each other and played at many parks as well.  I have always respected Michelle for being so steadfast in her faith.  She is such a generous and giving spirit.  She also makes me laugh like you wouldn't believe.  I knew that one day that they would eventually move to Utah, but it came out of nowhere and it was hard to accept that this is truly an end of an era.  She and her family will definitely be missed by the Smith Clan.  We hope that we will be friends forever no matter what distance separates us.

Lucky Number 7!

A yearly tradition!

The Swimming Gang From Lft to Rt.  Lucas, Elijah, Turtle, Daniel, Bradley, Julianna, and Devin

We are going to miss you, Daniel!! 

My Little Birthday Fish!!

Turtle's Syringes bring so much entertainment! Thanks Buddy!!

The Grub

It was a Lego Birthday!!  So much fun!

 

My Sweet Boy turned 7 this week.  I can't believe that I have a seven year old.  I am so thankful for what Elijah has taught me about being a mother.  He is such a happy and sweet boy.  There is nothing that I would rather do than be around him and soak up his goodness.  He is the best big brother.  He is smart and funny.  I love you, Elijah.  You are my favorite son!!!

Here comes the Bride

Dolly & Tyler Casper 

The boy that still steals Dolly's heart!  Teddy!!

Getting the endowments out a couple days before the big day!

Love my SISTERS! 

waiting at the reception for the bride and groom

 

 

 

Yesterday was a special day for the Smith Family.  We had a new member join our family.  Tyler Casper has been an angel that swept in to Dolly's life to bless her and our family.  We couldn't be happier for her.  She went through so much in her life to come to this point.  It proves to me that the Lord loves his children no matter what mistakes they make in the past.  Repentance is real.  The Lord sees fit to bless us if we just live by his commandments and Dolly and Tyler are a sure testimony of that.  The one thing I loved about her sealing ceramony was the advice of CONTINUE.  Continue to go through life instead of endure.  If we just continue, we can do a little better everyday and try to be all the Lord wants us to be.  We can't let our past define us, it is just a way we can get through and move on.  Don't get hung up on our mistakes.  It was such a wonderful day.  I am so happy for this beautiful couple.  They have a full life ahead of them.  More pictures to come. 

Mother's Day on Mt Diablo

My Favorite Hiking Crew

Starting out

No better way to spend the day than with my hiking buddy

We made it!! Almost 4000 feet of Mt Diable!

Dawna, our trail blazer!

Mother's Day Weekend was a blast!  We had a chance to climb Mt. Diablo with a group of friends.  It was a perfect day for it.  low 70's and cool.  The views were spectacular!  I hadn't done much on the excercise front, so I was a little out of shape.  It took me a week to recover from this.  But, I loved every minute of it.  I am always in awe of the beauty that surrounds us,  Another hike to check off my list.