Kirsten's Kindergarten Graduation

Kirsten graduated from Kindergarten a little over a week ago.  They prepared a program for their parents, and we got to hear Kirsten say her part in the microphone.  Her line was, "From Monday to Friday I studied at school.  On weekends I had time to play."  Well, I'm pretty sure she played a lot more than just on Saturday and Sunday, but that's okay :)  The program was adorable, and I particularly loved the caps and gowns.

Reagan congratulating the Graduate!

The Graduate

Our family

After the graduation, we went out to eat at McDonald's.  Perhaps when she graduates from high school she'll pick a fancier restaurant, but for now, Happy Meals really hit the spot for her.

The next day we went to Salt Lake for the Harley-Davidson dealership Demo Day.  We had a good time, but we were somewhat surprised that there weren't any other activities than test driving the motorcycles--which only Matt could do.  The girls and I looked around the dealership and found an orange Harley-Davidson collar for Porter.  It's pretty nice.

After Matt test drove a couple of motorcycles, we went to City Creek Center for lunch.  The girls had McDonald's again, and Matt and I had Chinese food.  Reagan and Kirsten played on the playground while Matt, Madelyn, and I relaxed.

Matt on a motorcycle

Somewhat tangentially, but of extreme importance to me, I will now brag about Reagan's ability to draw.  When Reagan showed me this butterfly, I was floored.  She is only four and a couple of months old, and this butterfly is fantastic.  She modestly told me that she didn't come up with it herself because she copied it from a picture in a book.  I told her that's how all great artists learn to draw.

This is an amazing butterfly!

She also drew this adorable bunny.

And this is clearly a poodle

Kirsten wrote me tons of notes and drew me lots of pictures on Mother's Day, and they touched my heart so deeply.

This is a picture of Mommy and Kirsten hugging.

Thank you.  You are special.

I'm crazy about all three of my little girls.  They mean the world to me.

Madelyn's Blessing Day

Matt gave Madelyn her baby blessing on May 7th.  My dad, Bishop Tom McHoes, Steven Hall, Dale Clyde, and Jon Bird stood in the circle with him.  It was such a sweet, tender blessing.  Tears came to my eyes as I felt Heavenly Father's love for our precious daughter.  I can't remember everything that Matt said in the blessing, but I do remember that he began by saying that she has come to the earth during a time of great challenge and great opportunity.  She will have the opportunity to get a good education and get sealed in the temple.  Heavenly Father blessed her with a desire to share the Gospel and that she will be an instrument of great change in people's lives.  I really believe that's true.  She is such a sweet, tender baby.  I'm so proud of her and grateful that Heavenly Father sent her to our family.

The day before her blessing we tried on her dress and took some pictures. 

Reagan and Madelyn are crazy about each other.

Look at that sweet face!

Don't you love Kirsten's outfit?

Unfortunately, Kirsten usually asks to hold her after Reagan is done.  So, Madelyn is usually crying by the time Kirsten holds her.

Our family after her blessing