Beauty All Around And Some Projectile

So much went on in the past 48 hours I feel a tad overwhelmed. I think I took nearly 80 photos in two days! But, somehow I will find a way to condense and document, because I think it's important. And something I don't want to forget. A word of warning, it is a bit lengthy, so proceed with caution. I think that Jared's birthday has been going on for about a week. Who wouldn't enjoy that? Between taking him lunch at school, cookies for his classmates AND a rockin' birthday party you pretty much have a week of Jared festivities. I always let my kids pick breakfast and a dinner for their birthday. This year he chose pancakes again, but decided to choose red die (even though they look pink).

Benjamen, Bryce, Jared and Josh

Friday was his birthday party at pump it up. It was a little pricey, but because my kids NEVER get birthday parties AND it was his 8th we decided to splurge. It was definitely worth every penny. The boys could run around be as loud and as wild as they wanted. The kids jumped for about an hour and a half straight and then they were guided into the party area. They were seriously sweating (as were the dads!) It was quite a sight. While they passed out the cake, chips and soda Jared opened up his gifts.

I think Weston thought it was his birthday cake

Unfortunately one of our guests got a little ill. Let's just say it looked like a scene from the Omen insert that with red Fanta (rather than pea soup) and you can pretty much get the picture. It was really quite sad. I totally felt bad for the little boy and his siblings who were also upset about the incident. Due to this accident we had quite an evacuation. You would have thought the room had a plague in it. In fact, I have never seen a room of people clear that fast. Despite the incident Jared walked away with a generous amount of gifts and the birthday party was a hit. I think the adults enjoyed themselves almost more than the kids!

Saturday we woke up to beautiful blue skies. I can't tell you how much that made a difference in my day. We have been drizzly and gloomy all week (I don't know how you Oregon and Washington gals do it). We left a few hours before the baptism in order to get things set up and fill the font. I seriously couldn't have done it without the help from my inlaws. Mom saved me in more ways that she will ever know.

The boys were so mesmerized by the font aka "big tub"
I guess there is just something about running water?

The baptism itself was wonderful and I admit I got a little teary during the ordinance. My talk went okay and I was surprised at how much Jared enjoyed the white blanket "comforter" I made him. We had a great turnout and I was even surprised as to how many people came to support Jared. I come to the conclusion we have an amazing ward and are surrounded by so many lovely families. I was so glad that one of my friends suggested to take a group photo. I had one at mine and how cool is it to look back and see all of the people who attended your baptism?

Not too shabby considering only 2 of those were family members!

It's hard to believe we have 2 children at that are now baptized. Our family photo was challenging as usual. We had two grumpy little boys to say the least and what in the world is Weston's hair doing? It looks as though he just woke up. Beggars can't be choosers right?

The baptism ended around 12:30pm and we headed home for a day to fix things and work in the yard. We took advantage of some extra "hands" to fix outside facets, toilets and even managed to move a trampoline from down the street into our backyard. (thanks Gordon's!) I am not so sure our backyard can handle such a contraption, but the kids are loving their new toy (at least for the next few months) Our plan is to tear down the rickety swing set and turn it into firewood. This probably won't occur for about a month, so for the time being our backyard will look like a circus--literally. Photos to follow........

Overall, it was a weekend packed with eating out, good company, hard work, and a great sabbath day. Today's lesson is a post all by itself. (which I'll save) We hated to see Mom and Dad Clouse go, but we were glad they were able to share this special occasion with us. Thanks for everything, we love you!!


**edit: we just found out about President Hinckley. I can't help but feel a little sad since he was the first prophet I "knew" (Hunter was only in for 6 months before he died after my baptism). What a wonderful man he was!!**

blessing: hearing a r.s. lesson I really needed