West Virginia

After almost two years of marriage, James and I spent our first nights apart.  He had a conference in West Virginia for work.  I have to admit that I was pretty surprised how sad I was the first night.  I am really blessed with an awesome husband, and I missed him while he is away.  I am grateful for modern technology and were able to keep in contact without a problem.  It was great to see him again at the end of the week... and spend time exploring Harpers Ferry. 

Spring Break - DC together

We wrapped up Jordan's trip to with some time closer to home.  We spent some time at Jones Point Lighthouse, at the park, in the yard, on the Wii, and one more trip into DC.  It was so great to have Jordan's influence with us, and to have so much fun family time together over spring break.

Spring Break - Aquarium and Boat Tour

We had a hard time deciding between going to the Aquarium in Virginia Beach, or going on a boat tour in Norfolk.  We decided on both!

Spring Break - Virginia Beach

The beach was at the top of the list of things Jordan wanted to do while he was out here.  We had a fun trip to Virginia Beach.  We stayed at a hotel, watched Frozen, and got to see the sunrise.  It was pretty cold and windy, but it was a fun time.  Sadly, our timing didn't work out for me to take them to the Cape Henry lighthouses as planned.  But we did get to have a large container ship pass over us as we went in the Hampton Roads Bridge Tunnel.

Spring Break - Jamestown

Jamestown was a great stop on our trip.  We learned about the first permanent English settlement and the history around that.  The glass blowing demonstration was a favorite.  We were able to see the creation of glass ornaments, and as a special treat for us he made a penguin.

Spring Break - Fredericksburg Cousins

We were happy that we were able to have the kids for their spring break time while Jordan was here.  It's been seven years since the last time they saw each other, so Joseph was the only one who really remembered him.  We got to see the battlefields in Fredericksburg.  It was pretty cute when Joy put her hat on her face to stay warm... doesn't she look a little like a duck? 

Spring Break - Jordan in DC

We were super excited to have our nephew Jordan come visit us for his spring break.  We weren't able to show him the cherry blossoms while he was here, but we did have snow for his visit.  He is a senior in high school, and in July will go on a mission call to Des Moines, Iowa.  In his first days here we were able to fit in Mount Vernon, Great Falls, the DC Temple, Arlington Cemetery, Roosevelt Island, Iwo Jima, and a basic car tour of DC.  Monday and Tuesday he rode the Metro downtown and got to visit many more of the museums and monuments.

Step Mom

Joy brought her dolls for the weekend, and she wanted to play like I was having a baby.  I had one, then another one right away.  I asked if they were twins and she said no.  I started to explain that it took a little while (at least nine months or a year) to have another baby, but we proceeded to play and I had five babies one right after each other.  It's been interesting to think about, because in many ways, I did have 5 children all at once when I married James.  I've been so blessed to have them in my home and be able to share in their lives.  I haven't had all the typical mother experiences, but have had a fair number of adventures.  It's different as they grow.  I've had someone pee on my porch, hide perishable items around the house, and use the fingernail polish without permission.  We've had girls in the ward ask about our teenage son.  I've had some great hugs and lots of fun singing and dancing.  We've had some rebellious words and actions.  We've had some tender moments sharing the gospel.  I'm so happy to be able to experience it all!

Stake Conference with the boys

James had some leadership meetings in the afternoon.  All those 12 and older were invited to an evening meeting.  I ended up taking the boys, and James stayed with the younger kids.  Afterwards I snuck back in the house to get a gift card to take the boys out for some frozen yogurt.  Do you think we got enough toppings?

A Tour of the Local Fire Station

Saturday we walked the four and a half blocks to tour our local fire station.  The fire fighters were awesome and gave us a tour of the fire station and showing us the fire engines.  We learned that they wake up to a "Hot Doughnuts" sign.  Plus, we completed another requirement for Hyrum towards his Wolf!