The dog park

Don't get me wrong, we are so grateful that we lived within about a three minute walk from the well-kept but small Hell's Kitchen dog run in New York. The run became an even greater life saver once we had Brooklynn. But the dogs have never been happier now that we can visit the Millie Bush dog park several times a week. It is 13 grassy acres and contains two large ponds. We're also within about 20 minutes of another 14-acre park and the newest addition, a 35-acre park that has a bone shaped pond and built in agility course. Data shows that these parks are used much more than regular people parks so the parks department sees it as a wise investment. We definitely agree. Way to go, Houston!

Gunner, Hell's Kitchen Dog Run

Remy (swimming) & Gunner

Millie Bush Dog Park

Cherry Cousins!

The best thing about being back in Houston is that we are now (relatively) close to Phil & Jana Cherry and their kids. Brooklynn loves hanging out with her cousins. This past weekend, the Cherrys made the long drive from Spring and spent the night. Brookly was so excited to wake up the next morning to find she had people (and not just dogs) to play with!

Together Forever

June 1 was a wonderful, special day for our family. After finalizing her adoption earlier in the day, we took Brooklynn to the Jordan River Temple and were sealed as a family for time and all eternity. As always, Brooklynn looked like a perfect angel and I started to tear up the second she was brought into the room and I saw this beautiful little girl. My cousin, Chelle, who was so instrumental in Brooklynn being a part of our family, held her during the ceremony. John and I are both so happy to have her with us! And it was wonderful to be surrounded by so many family members.
After the sealing, we met again with friends and family to celebrate the sealing and give Brooklynn her name and blessing. I hope that she will always know how many people love her!
To top off a wonderful and emotional day, my sister, Amy called late that night to say she was in labor and to invite John and me to witness the birth of her twins. We are both so grateful we could be there (even if I did come within a couple breaths of fainting!) to see Elizabeth and Elijah come into the world (at 7lbs 7oz and 7lbs 2oz respectively).
Finally, on Sunday, we celebrated with my sister Sarah's family as her husband, Dave, blessed their fourth child, beautiful Samantha Brynn. Brooklynn is so happy to be surrounded by so many cousins!
We ended the day in Fairview Canyon with the Shawgo kids and Hollie, Shane, and Emery. This spot is very special to me and it was Brooklynn's first time there.
What a spectacular trip home!