Too many

Dear Ryan, 

We have been reading about the Stripling Warriors in The Book of Mormon. Tonight the sons of Helaman were reclaiming the city of Cumeni. As you were repeating what daddy said you called Cumeni-too many. 

We also talked about what provisions are and what provisions you would take on a march through a forest. You and Grace said things like food, clothes, blankets, weapons. But then you said that the Stripling warriors would probably want a picture if their family so they won't forget them. 

Ryan, you are so full of love! I am so honored to be your mother. You are a gentleman and are constantly trying to make sure I am happy and comfortable. You are going to be an amazing man, just like you dad is. Never forget that honoring women makes you stronger, not wimpy, and that men and women are both special-one is not better than the other. They both have unique qualities and roles that are different, but both are very, very important and necessary. God made each one of us and knows us intimately-never doubt that. His plan is divine and eternal! Always listen to your tender heart. The Holy Ghost will help you with all you decisions, big and small. 

I love you with all my heart!

Mom

Crayons are not for coloring

Dear Connor, 

Sometimes I just want to squeeze you! You are so cute!

Sometimes I don't know what to do with you, though. The other night you colored on the cabinets with a dry erase marker, thank heavens. 

When I told you no and made a disappointed face at you, you almost cried. You put your head down and looked like a sick puppy. 

How do I discipline you when you are so cute?!

You have a sinus infection right now and have been so sad. I don't blame you, you  probably wish your head was chopped off. I know that is how I felt when I had a sinus infection. 

I hope you get feeling better soon, sweet boy. 

I love you!

Mom

Haircuts

A couple weeks ago we came home from picking up Ryan from kindergarten and it was such a beautiful day. I just had to take some pictures! This is what I got. 

Connor did not want Ryan to touch him! It was comical. Connor would laugh until Ryan touched him and then he would scream. 

Anyway, while I took these amazing pictures I notice the boys hair was getting long. 

Ryan is a pro at getting hair cuts since he gets one about every month since he was about nine months. Connor on the other hand hates it and is miserable the whole time. 

I had to take pics of the sad baby. He is just too cute!

We are about at hair cut time again. I need to do them before Brittany's wedding in two weeks. Yea!

Kindergarten

Dear Ryan,

You started kindergarten! 

I cannot believe you are big enough to be in school. You have been my constant companion for over five years and now if feels like I am loosing you. I am glad that you only go in the mornings and not all day. 

You are so happy to be going I school with Grace. 

Your teacher is Mrs. Walters and you say she is very nice. 

Phin is in your class. His older sister Brona is in Grace's class. 

You will be sitting next to each other in class. At the Popsicle party that was held to get to know the kids before school started you and Phin shared a twin pop. 

While you were at school I felt a little lost. I know Connor felt the same way because he wandered around the house looking for you. 

I love you! I am glad that you are growing, but at times I wish you would stay my sweet little boy forever. 

Mom

Girls' Day

Dear Grace,

As I spent the day with you I realized just how much you have grown. You are ten years old and are almost a young women. 

We ate Panda Express takeout in Murray Park. I am apparently going to Asia. 

You had so much fun walking around the park and climbing the trees. 

After getting you new glasses and some school supplies for Ryan we went home and painted you nails. 

I feel so blessed to have you as my daughter. You are patient and so full of love. You are an awesome helper and never complain. Your brother both love you so much and want to be like you. 

I have been impressed how you write in your journal and read your scriptures each night. You push me to be a better disciple if Christ. Our family is better with you in it!  

Love you!

Mom