Maybe an unusual grouping of events but just the right amount of pictures so here it goes…..
I am so thankful that Bryan stayed home from his church meetings on Father’s Day. Truth be told, he’d rather not be doted on but he knows the kids like him around so he humors them (and me too). We had a delightful morning together giving Dad his gifts.
Max is the king of awkward poses.
No Father’s Day is complete without going to visit Mara’s special spot. I am eternally grateful for this man who takes his job as Dad pretty darn seriously. I love him and love the opportunity to watch him father our children.
My mom, sisters and Bryan orchestrated an amazing 40th birthday surprise! We had a CRAZY busy week and so Bryan and I agreed to go out on Monday (5 days before my birthday and the only free time we had during the week). Bryan told me that he’d be home from work early and that we’d leave to hang out together. When he was later than expected getting home, I checked my FindAFriend app (AKA stalk your husband) and saw that not only was Bryan nearly home but so were my mom and sisters who I also follow. I caught them 10 minutes before they arrived which disappointed everyone but I was still delighted. My surprise was heightened when I answered the door and also saw Grandma Doris! How fun! Grammy D has a niece who lives in Auburn and didn’t want to pass the opportunity to come visit. I will always treasure answering the door and seeing all of them standing there to greet me! We took Grandma to Gene’s house and then headed off on an overnight adventure which included shopping, eating, a hotel, pedicures and general happiness and merriment. I can’t believe they pulled it off. I’m so grateful. It was the best surprise on what would prove to be one of the busiest weeks of my life!
Apparently we have similar tastes? Stripes and grey for the win!
Mmmmm pazookies!
Love these ladies. I’m a spoiled girl! I can’t believe they left their kiddos mid-week to made this happen.
My actual birthday was shared with a few other events. We woke up early to attend Natalie’s MS graduation (featured in an upcoming post). When I got home the girls and dad had some nice gifts waiting for me.
Katrina and Sadie hid 40 pieces of paper all over my room. I found them and put them together in order, revealing darling message!
They even decorated my door!
My kids have really gotten a kick out of a filter they found on my phone. Didn’t even know I had it.
My day was complete with heavenly hot fudge from my friend, Jenn! Can’t think of anything better!
The girl’s dance recital was awesome, fun, creative and beautiful. I was so proud of each one of them and thankful for the care and instruction they receive at CDT. Let’s start off with some pics of their costumes.
Sadie and her darling friend, Isabelle.
Katrina was in the first show. Here she is when I dropped her off, all ready to go! It was fun to focus on just Katrina. She danced beautifully. We are excited that she’s been promoted to pointe next year! I love how dance gives her poise and focus.
Have I mentioned yet how hot mom and dad kept the trail between here and Ephrata? Love them so much and feel grateful they were willing to sacrifice their anniversary to be here for us.
No dance recital is complete without purple Mara cookies. This year, the proceeds went to the Make-a-Wish foundation. Appropriate for many reason but especially for the fact that Bryan will be on their board within the next year.
Between recitals, Max and I attended the leadership session of Stake Conference. He was asked to play a musical number, which is always treat.
After hosting a dinner after the afternoon session, I headed back to the recital scene, this time for Natalie and Sadie. Thank goodness mom was willing to get Sadie ready to go!
We all got home and were exhausted from a wonderful, incredible day! These girls are lucky to have this opportunity to dance. They are growing right before our eyes into lovely dancers but also into lovely people. I am so proud of them!