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Wednesday, November 19, 2008

Jaden's baptism . . . finally!




Jaden turned 8 in August. Originally, her baptism was scheduled for September 13, however, instead of family visiting that weekend we had an unwanted visitor named hurricane Ike. We are happy to announce that Jaden was baptized this past Saturday, November 15th 2008 by her dad. It was very sweet. As she and I were taking pictures around the church she told me, "I can't stop smiling. I feel so happy" as is evident in all of the pictures below. We are proud of Jaden and the decision she has made. She is a great example to us and her brother and sister. We love you Jaden.
Recently, Jaden had a school assignment that required her to bring items that described her (an artifact box). After presenting those items she was asked to choose one item and prepare a written piece that explains why she selected the item and how it has made a difference or has helped her to be the person she is today. Jaden chose her necklace that says "I am a Child of God" and her CTR ring. This is her written piece (word for word including spelling):
"One of lifes greatest questions is "who am I?" I know who I am. I am a child of God. This neclace and ring have helped me to grow to understand that. I know God loves me & each & every one of you & he allways allways will. I hope all of you will make good choices in yourlife, & hope you make it a good one."
Thanks to all of our family who came to support us. Grandma and Grandpa Johnson drove 13 hours from St. Louis, MO. Mom played a beautiful piano solo called, Baptism by Paul Cardall. Grandma Patsy flew in on a bumpy flight from Provo, Utah. Pat gave a wonderful talk on the Holy Ghost and presented Jaden with a hand made quilt. And Nick and Katy (8 months pregnant) drove from San Antonio, Texas. Jaden felt very special and we loved having all of you here!

Tuesday, November 11, 2008

The opportunity presented itself. . .

I had to jump at the chance to have all of my kids dressed as their nick name for Halloween 2008! The idea revolved around the fact that Jaden (the oldest and most opinionated),on her own, wanted to be a lady bug. Then it was just a matter of convincing Ty that a Tiger was "faster, cooler and more ferocious" than a power ranger! Reese on the other hand didn't have a say either way.
Also, Kyle and I can not take credit for nick naming our own children. All of our children received their nick names from my sister in-law Jasmine. She is the queen of nick names. What ever nick name she bestows - sticks.

JADEN - Our "Jady Lady"


















TY - Our "Tiger" or "Tiger Liger"

















P.S. We are fully aware of how feminine the valour tiger one piece looks. All I have to say is that all 22 Party City's were out of the one we wanted after 2 of them promised to hold the Tiger costumes for me. This was all Target had left. It's a large child size. We cut off the legs. Ty thinks it's AWESOME!


REESE - Our "Reester Bunny"


















KYLE - "I'm just a pay check"


















Pumpkin time!

Here we are picking out and carving pumpkins "Texas" style. . . the day before Halloween! Carved pumpkins only last a few days as the humidity here causes them to rot, wilt, mold, and then of course attract the swarms of nats that greet you on your doorstep. We love Texas, however, we wish we could transport some crispy fall weather our way!