Ava Turns Six

Ava turned six on December 1st. She had a busy but fun birthday. As you can see from the pictures she is still very in love with princess and pink. We love you Ava, Happy Birthday.

Halloween 2011

For Halloween this year we had spider man, a mummy, Rapunzel and a nerd. The kids had a great time at the ward trunk or treat and then trick or treating. They even braved the rain.

Benson Turns Three!

Our little man turned three on Oct. 16th. It is hard to believe that three years have passed since he joined our family. He is such a blessing and so full of life, we are lucky to have him. He had a week long celebration as friends and family gave him gifts as they came to visit.




As you can see from the huge smile, Benson is very into Spider man right now.

The Thomas Cousins Come to Visit

Justin was given two tickets to the U of O duck game on Oct. 15th, he decided to invite his brother, who is a big duck fan, down to watch the game with him. Justin and Brandon ended up taking the four oldest kids to the OSU vs BYU game in the early afternoon and then they went to the Duck game in the evening. It was a long day of football. The entire day was a big hit and the kids had a blast being together.

Back to School 2011-2012

All three of the girls headed to school this year. They love their teachers and Lexie is getting used to sixth grade and having to move from room to room for each subject. Natalie is enjoy her third grade teacher but was shocked at the thought of no snack time. We can't believe our little Ava is in kindergarten but she is loving it. Benson doesn't know what to do with himself while she is gone in the mornings but we are figuring it out as we go. He informs me daily that he "needs" to go to our neighbor Ed's house or to one of his other friends houses.

Justin Graduated!!!!

For the past year and nine months Justin has been working (very hard) on his masters degree. He finished his course work and thesis project at the end of August and received his degree in September. He is now an official Graduate of Pennsylvania State University with a Masters Degree in Human Resources and Employment Relations. He was such a hard working, diligent student and he graduated with honors. Way to go babe, we are so proud of you!

Some End of Summer Family Fun

Right before school started we headed to Tillamook for some family time and a visit with Grandma and Jon. We probably had the best weather we have ever had on an Oregon beach, we roasted hot dogs at the bay house and we did a little shopping in Lincoln City. The trip was a much needed break and we had a great time together.


This was the first time we have actually gotten into our swimsuits at the Oregon Coast. Jut and the kids had a blast running with the waves and playing in the sand. I, on the other hand :), thoroughly enjoyed laying on the beach watching them. The water was still far to cold for me but the sunshine was wonderful.

Jon and Grandma came over on Sunday to spend some time with us. Jut and Jon built a fire down by the water and we all a great time roasting hot dogs and marshmallows. This was the first time we have had a fire on the beach at the bay house but I think from now on it will be a regular occurrence.