Noah

I have been missing this #3 son a lot lately. I did not think I would miss so much all the lively taunting this boy seemed to constantly be the author of. But I do. Here he stands with his new bike ready to teach the fine folks of Indiana about Jesus Christ. He has been gone now for three months. It seems so much longer. I am glad that he has taken his cute sense of humor with him and even though he seems more serious he still makes us laugh and believe it or not still can taunt the girls! He is special that way:) I wonder though if he knows how much of an example he is to all of us. I wonder if he knows that because he chose to serve the Lord for two years that lives will be changed and he will have a hand in it. I know that what he is doing is important and that in the end he will learn so much more than had he not chosen to serve his mission. I love the power of his testimony right now.  I had such a powerful experience about this young man and know without a doubt that the Lord has him where he can do the most good for the people and for himself. To quote Noah himself "My mindset is that the next person I talk has been prepared to hear this message of the restored gospel. That's why it is crucial to talk to everyone, to be bold, and to do it with a smile on your face. That's why I'm here, sacrificing two years of my life, so why not do it with a good attitude!!" I love him so much and I am glad that I can share him with the good people of Indiana!

Chelsea's surpise wedding

A couple of weeks ago my daughter Chelsea, who had planned an engagement party, surprised everyone by getting married! Of course, I knew about it and so did her father and a couple of her sisters. But for the most part it was a surprise to everyone! It turned out beautiful and was just like she had dreamed it to be. You can check out her video that Nick (Ashleigh's husband) put together for them here: http://vimeo.com/107013988

I made her bouquet. She wanted it out of vintage broaches and so with only a couple of months to find them I went to work putting it together. We had some from Dan's family and some from a few of Chelsea's friends and the rest we found or purchased.  I wanted it different than anything I had seen on pinterest.  I used a vintage hand mirror as the base and glued the foam onto the mirror part. Covered it with purple lace and then added the pins like they were flowers with flower picks. If she wants she can use any of the broaches. I think it turned out more beautiful than even she imagined. Here Taylor is holding it.

I can't believe that I have three daughters married now. It seems like it has taken forever for these weddings to happen. I think there might be a couple more coming in the next year or two...