January

This was a busy but fun month for our family! 1) We spent the first week in January with Dan's parents in their beautiful new home. In that week, we were able to visit with Mike, Brett, and Kirk's families in Nampa, have some girl time with Annikan and Ashley for a pedicure, see a movie with my mother in-law; not to mention all cousin time and the "brother bonding" Dan was able to do:) 2) Great Grandma and Grandpa Child always send the kids Birthday money. I don't know how they keep up, but we are truly blessed to have them in our lives! The are so generous with their time, talents, and money; and to have taken us in as their own since my mom and Todd were married.

3) Briggs turned 4 months, got his first haircut, and absolutely adores his older sister! They have developed quite a friendship, that I know will blossom as the years go by. 4) Braxton is such a good sport and always has a good attitude about life and does not let "disappointment" get him down. Dan helped him build his car for the Pinewood Derby, but did not place in any race:( When all was said and done, he had a smile on his face and was cheering on his buddy's...that is True Sportsmanship!

Happy New Year Mack and Briggs!

My heart was so full as we gathered in Grandma and Grandpa Dean's beautiful new home to see two beautiful baby boys get blessed! Since the birth of these special boys (Both born on September 17, 2011), Annikan and I knew we had to try to bless these baby's together. The details were always unsure, but when Dan and I knew we would be visiting over the holidays, and Mike and Annikan would be close by, everything seemed to fall into place! Of course once we knew the day would actually happen, Annikan and I thought it would be fitting if Mack and Briggs had matching outfits. Annikan found a darling (one-piece) sweater on-line that we both fell in love with! They both looked so angelic and just happy to be born into loving families. It was an awesome day to be surrounded by almost all (minus 1 family and 1 missionary) the Dean family! I am excited to watch these "Twins" grow up together...we are truly blessed to have them in our lives.

Happy Birthday Lynnie!

The Braxton and Blaze started calling Berlyn, "Lynnie" shortly after she was born. The name has stuck ever since, even though most of the time she is called Berlyn. I can't believe my baby girl is 3yr.!!! We are so blessed to have this sweet (most of the time) little girl in our home of 3 boys. She is as much our "princess" as the boys have always treated her. We left Firth Saturday morning, but not before she opened a special (blanket) from Grandma Willvie. I am a sucker for handmade blankets; especially from my mother (who is an amazing seamstress)! I requested this blanket 2 months before her birthday, hoping my mom would say "yes"!! Of course she did and we picked out material together when she was visiting in October after the birth of Briggs. The blanket turned out beautiful and straight from a Grandma's heart! After opening her blanket, we said a tearful Good-bye and headed to Grandview to celebrate the remains of her day with the Dean's. It was so fun to be surrounded by cousins on both sides; not to mention a good kick off to New Year's Eve. We love you Berlyn and hope you enjoyed your special Birthday!!

Happy Birthday Braxton!

Braxton turned the big 9 yr. on December 29th!!! He was so lucky this year to spend his special day with his cousins! We spent the day playing with cousins, eating lunch at Artic Circle, fixing his favorite dinner "Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo", dancing to music, opening presents and eating "Captain America" cake! Braxton is such a special young man and I always get such awesome compliments about his good manners, maturity, and easy disposition! We are truly blessed to have him in our home! We love you son...

Grandma's House...Where cousins become Best Friends!

A couple years ago I saw the quote, "Grandma's House...where cousins become Best Friends". With tears in my eye's, I shared it with my mom. This quote now hangs on display in her living room with pictures of all her precious grand kids. With living so far away, I often wonder how my kids will act around their cousins at reunions. Every time I am in awe at how they talk and play with one another! They are truly best friends and I am excited to see their relationships grow as the years pass.

Berlyn and Jaida

Jaida and Berlyn...Thanks Aunt Brooksie!

Briggs and Stella (2 weeks apart)

Aisha

Kamden and Braxton

Chase

A special visit from Santa

Having a great time making Ginger Bread Houses!

Jaida

Kasen and Briggs (4 months apart)

Marriner

Abby

Sadie, Jaida, Berlyn

Sadie

Sami

Saying Good Bye:(