An eventful week

For many years Andy wanted a motorcycle. I saved and saved to make that a reality. I wanted it to be a graduation gift. We were able to make it happen 44 months ago, well before graduation. (I know I posted pictures then, May 2010.) 

We have loved Malcolm or Mal for short. He was a blessing to our family. Last week we sold him to some dear friends. It was a hard decision and very heart wrenching for both of us. But, it is their time to ride. We got photos of everyone's last ride on him. 

Mal's last ride - Marcus and Andy

Anneke and Andy

 Andy and Luk

 Mallory and Andy (she only went a few feet, but she loved it)

 My motorcycle gang

 On Saturday Anneke had 2 back to back volleyball games. Marcus was on a Scout camp out so the rest of the crew stayed home to wait for him and Andy's family to arrive.

This shot is for Aunt Cari.

 She started out really strong. She served well and went after the ball. I think the second game she was tired, though. Her team, the Owls, lost one and won the other.

 On Sunday Marcus was ordained a deacon. It was a beautiful blessing, with many loved ones in the circle. All of Andy's family was there except his brother Scott. Afterwards we had food and "cake". Marcus is like his mom and dad and is not a fan of cake. I made 2 big cookies instead.

 Turns out that one cookie would have been enough.

 My big 12 year old

 Making a wish

 Kimbree, Luke and Landon

On a side note - Andy's mom kept a very good baby book for each of her boys. I looked in Andy's book. When he was 12 he was 5'2", and when he was 13 1/2 he was 5'5 1/4". Currently Marcus is just over 5'7". Yikes!

Yesterday we played on the playground and I happened to take some shots.

 Luke tried really hard to make the boomerang work. He was not successful.

 Mallory loved when her big brother and Daddy would rock the boat for her.

 Everyone climbed the ropes.

Andy and I have joined the smart phone world. So far, though, my kids are on my phone more than me, playing games. However, last night is was very nice. Andy takes the computer to work, so last night I could use my phone to plan my Sunday lesson and talk on the Holy Ghost for Saturday. Two girls that have been attending my Sunday School class are getting baptized. They want me to speak. I am so excited and honored. I love them so much!

7:21 am

12 years ago at 7:21am I gave birth to a baby boy. I didn't think I was going to be a mom. I was told I wouldn't. Marcus Andrew was my miracle. He is growing so fast and is so amazing. Happy birthday, my boy.

Marcus is saving for a Kindle Fire, but I had already gotten him a couple of gifts, so we called them "token presents" so he had something to open today. (Hopefully he will have enough money soon because they are having a sale right now. ;)

Animal for his PEZ collection:

 I just really liked his face in this one:

 'Punzel for Disney Infinity. (Mallory is claiming it as hers right now.)

 Again, I just liked this shot. Mo needs more sleep.

This guy right here will be receiving the priesthood on Sunday. I am so proud of my boy. Look how old he is!

(I would just like to thank the DI for having a suit to fit him. We have gone through several since he turned 8.)

Happy New Year!

I have not felt like writing lately. I don't want to bore people. However, it has been too long, so here goes.

Andy applied to many jobs lately. Including 2 in Texas (Odessa and Houston area) and Snow College in Ephraim, Utah. We are not picky at this point. He should have his book completed by the end of the month and off to reviewers. Also, he will be selling his motorcycle and it is very sad.

I cried most of today. Marcus received his Faith in God award and religious knot for Boy Scouts. For 2 weeks all my children were in primary together. I kept thinking of the first time they sang the birthday song to him in primary and today they sang it for the last time. When I was pregnant with him I consecrated my son to the Lord. I guess he is just fulfilling that promise. He had his interview with the bishop. Next week I will have 2 priesthood holders in my home.

For the New Year everyone (except me) got a hair cut. I put Mallory's in a rubber band and cut it off. She thought it was just like in Tangled and calls her hair 'Punzel hair.

 the back. (I am pretty pleased with how it turned out.)

 Anneke trusted her dad to cut her hair. 

 Again, not bad.

Anneke started volleyball last week. She has had 2 games. Last week she scored the winning point. She looks adorable in her uniform. I hope to post a picture soon.

Both Marcus and Anneke got call backs for the school musical. Tomorrow they will perform again and find out Tuesday (Marcus's 12th birthday). I am really worried about how I will react to the outcome, so I pray they get parts or it might not be pretty.

I have been making a bunch of personal progress folders to the young women and planning girls camp. I have been reading and enjoying Mallory time. Anything I missed?