Since we've been gone . . .

Okay, so its been awhile. I'd like to think that we've been busy doing so many fun things that I haven't had time to blog. Or, it could be that I'm just lazy. You decide. Regardless, now is the time to catch you up on our family happenings over the summer.

Brooklynn traded in her Yankee's outfit for something more Astros worthy. It was a long game and we almost made it through all 17 innings (some of us stayed more alert than others). Too bad the Astros lost. Better luck next year.

We visited several of our neighborhood pools to cool off from the summer sun--this one "The Beach" was our favorite. All the fun of the sand and water without the salt!At the end of July, John's dad and Shari were married in Atlanta. It was the first time we got to meet Mandy's daughter Ella and Brooklynn loved playing with her cousin!

John's parents, Greg & Kathy, accepted a mission call in San Antonio. They stopped by our place in Katy for a visit on their way. We are grateful for the wonderful example of service and bravery they have shown in their missionary work.

We love living near the Cherrys here in Houston and Brooklynn adores her cousins. We've been able to have some fun sleepovers and outings since we've moved back.

Three cousins in a tub
(Matty, Katie, and Brooklynn)

Matty teaching Brooklynn the finer points of
Scooby Doo

Brooklynn and I took a quick trip to San Jose to help out while Jane was recuperating from eye surgery (unfortunately, I fear that my dazzling beauty only blinded her further--her recovery has been slow and painful). Jacob and Aidan were good playmates for Brooklynn (when they weren't spending hours on their HORRENDOUS homework) and Claire very graciously shared her bedroom, toys, and even some of her clothes--just so long as Brooklynn ate with her mouth CLOSED! (good thing babies fly free--at just 10-1/2 months, this was Brooklynn's fifth trip)


Brooklynn touring the Harris' estate

Jacob drying Brooklynn off after her bath

That's it for now. With any luck, you'll hear from us again in less than three months!

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!