December 22: Random Moments that Make Up My Life

This is Warren's super helpful and obedient alter-ego, Captain Weirdo. When some job around the house isn't getting done, Andy and I often start wondering where Captain Weirdo is and what a good job he would do if he were here. We tease Warren that we don't know it's him and he still tries to convince us that it is just him. It's funny that he isn't sure if we're joking or not.

Family pictures are not fun to take. I really think it is the worst hour of my year. I almost wish I hadn't deleted all the rejects so you could see how hard we had to work just to get this slightly blurred picture.

Abigail makes the best faces. I think this one is so cute.

So last week we made 6 different kinds of cookies by doing one a day and then freezing them. We had a good time and I stayed mostly calm throughout the whole child-involved process, and I think they look so festive, so here is a virtual plate for you. Merry Christmas.

December 5: It's all about the legs...

For a long time, Avery has been able to stand unsupported and to walk using all sorts of furniture. She even was able to take 1 step to go from couch to couch, but she did this rarely. But tonight, we were all in the kitchen and I turned and there she was, taking about 8 steps across the kitchen! She was great! I grabbed the camera and took her into the family room for this video. Avery will celebrate her 1st birthday on December 18. Congratulations Avery!

Before Abigail naps each day, we read books together. Today I chose, “I am a Child of God,” a book illustrated with paintings by Greg Olson. As we arrived at the picture of the Savior seated with a little child leaning on His lap, Abigail said, “Mom, let’s sing, ‘I am a Child of God.’” So we did. I began with verse 1, and Abigail sang along, looking pretty confused. We finished and she said, “Mom , that didn’t go with ‘so my needs (pronounced knees) are great,” as she pointed at Jesus’ knees, prominent in the seated position he was painted in. Then I asked her to sing the second verse, and sure enough, she clearly sings, “I am a child of God, and so my knees are great.”

Warren's Thanksgiving Parade

"Lining Up"
Warren awoke with a burning desire yesterday morning to have a parade wherein he could throw candy (see the video at the bottom for a quick fulfillment of that dream). So we called some friends, gathered some pumpkins, costumes and other festive stuff and today we had the first ever "Friends and Neighbors Thanksgiving Parade." Our parade route was four houses long and back. Afterwards, we all played in the backyard and ate pumpkin cake. It was pure childhood fun. Happy Thanksgiving.

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"Ready to Go"

"All Done"

November 8: Hold to the Rod

We have been reading about the Iron Rod (represents the Word of God) that leads to the Tree of Life (love of God/Jesus Christ) for scripture study. Inspired by that story this is what I found this morning when Warren excitedly got me from making breakfast: an "iron rod" of masking tape leading to a "tree," made from a brown towel trunk, green block leaves, and a box containing pears and...cheese. I suppose there's always room for personal application of the scriptures.

"And it came to pass that I did go forth and partake of the fruit...it filled my soul with exceedingly great joy; wherefore I began to be desirous that my family should partake of it also; for I knew that it was desirable above all other fruit." 1 Nephi 8:11-12

"And it came to pass that they did come unto me and partake of the fruit also." 1 Nephi 8:16

I am always touched by the simple faith of my children and the joy they have in learning and living the scriptures. Warren repeatedly says they are his favorite book and often asks for me to read them to him multiple times a day. So, if you feel like you'd like more joy, more peace in your life, take a cue from Warren--and from the parable of the Tree of Life--and experience the love of God by reading His word. I think I understand how Lehi must have felt, wanting his family, in my case, a lot of my extended family to "partake"; if you are reading this, consider it an invitation from me to take a leap of faith. "Come unto me [Christ] all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest." (Matt. 11:28). Ask God what His plan for you is--He'll answer. I love you all.

-Bekah

November 7: Welcome Home Andy!

After 5 days in San Diego for a Neuroscience Conference, we are so content and excited to have Andy back. Yes, life goes on without him here, but it sure is better with him here! Here is a random list of times I missed Andy:

1. Setting out my toothbrush and wishing I could put toothpaste on yours, too.
2. When I felt no peer pressure to floss my teeth, so I didn't a few nights.
3. Reading scriptures alone at night.
4. Sleeping in the center of the bed.
5. Sitting at the computer without your familiar presence on the couch, on your laptop,
behind me. (Like you are now...)
6. Unloading the kids from the car after G-ma/pa's Jennings house on Sunday night.
7. Getting Avery out of bed in the morning.
8. At the dinner table.
9. Not having any reason to cook--I like leftovers, and the kids just want PBJ's.
10. No Ron Paul updates each night--I started checking myself!
11. When I deliberately didn't open the window before going to bed each night.

We love you Andy/dad!

This video is the kids reaction when he walked into the backyard to greet the kids.