Our first lesson on death

Last night while trying to make dinner, Troy ventured outside to play. I felt like I should go out with him for some reason, so I did. In our backyard sat a nasty old crow. Not that this is unusual, seems like they are out in full force right now, but this big crow wasn't moving. As I got closer, thinking it would fly away, it just stayed put. So I was glad I went out there because I know Troy would have gone right up to it. Anyway, long story short, I think the bird must have broken it's wing or leg or something because it could barely hobble. I tried calling animal control, but they were closed, so, being the awesome woman that I am, I took a bucket and a shovel and scooped it up. That thing was TICKED!! All the while, Erik stood watching and laughing. Ya, some knight in shining armor he is! Anyway, I set him in the street and he hobbled away.

At dinner, Brooklyn asked where the bird went. Here is how the conversation went:

B: Where did the bird go mom?
Me: I think he went to live somewhere else.
B: Did he have a broken wing?
Me: Ya, I think it was that, and he is old too honey, so he went to live with Heavenly Father. Because sometimes when we're old or sick, we get to go live with Heavenly Father.
B: Oh, Heavenly Father will take care of him? Will he give him a nest?
Me: Yes honey, Heavenly Father will definitely take care of him and give him a nest.
B: Does Heavenly Father have a bed for him?
Me: Yes, Heavenly Father has a bed for him, the nest is his bed.
B: Will He fix his wing?
Me: Yes, He will definitely fix his wing.
B: Does Heavenly Father have scissors to fix it? Will he get the scissors from the church?
Me: Yup, He has scissors to fix his wing and He will probably get them from the church.
B: Oh, OK.

Brooklyn has always been such an inquisitive little girl and I love that we were able to take such a small happening to talk a little about where we go when we die. She was so reassured and content with the answer that Heavenly Father would take care of this little bird. And it really brought a lot of needed perspective for me with the recent passing of my sweet uncle. Kids are so in tune with the spirit and so thirsty for the knowledge of the gospel! I am so thankful for the knowledge that when we die, there is a place for us with Heavenly Father, and He will heal our "broken wings."

Our baby girl isn't much of a baby anymore!

Brooklyn turned 3 yesterday. I know I say this every year, but I can't believe how time has flown. She is such a sweet, spunky little girl. She loves her "baby" brother (as she lovingly calls him), and always makes sure he gets a hug and a kiss goodnight. Brooklyn LOVES swimming and could swim all day if I let her. She also LOVES popsicles, quesadillas, french fries, and watermelon. She is finally becoming a more adventurous eater, and even ate a whole gyoza the other night (which she had stolen from her friends plate)! She loves to be read to, especially on the potty. lol We love our sweet little Brooklyn and the joy and spunk she brings into our lives. Happy Birthday sweet girl!

Here are her 3 year stats (for my records): weight-30 lbs!! She finally hit it! I attribute it to a full bladder :) (25%), height-36.25" (25%) She had a major growth spurt the last couple months!, BMI 16.05 (just like her mommy! ha!) 50%, Blood pressure 90/60, Vision R 20/40 L 20/40 

We threw a little "slip 'n slide" birthday party for her on Saturday with a few of her friends. Then on her actual birthday, we invited her "aunt" Stephanie and "uncle" Hyrum and their kids over for cake.

The food table. We kept it simple. I asked Brooklyn what she wanted and she wanted pb & j, watermelon, and pretzels. Easy enough!

Made a little flower garland...an hour before the party...and I hadn't showered yet. Priorities people!

The slip n' slide was a hit!

Brooklyn was very gracious opening her presents. At least for a 3 year old I thought.

Sunday after church she opened her presents from Mommy and Daddy. The dress she's wearing was her special birthday outfit.

Brooklyn requested banana bread for her cake. lol  Done!

Ending the night with a little "Princess and the Frog." 

Reach and pull, reach and pull!!

Brooklyn and Troy started swimming lessons last week. Troy is in a "Mommy and me" class, and Brooklyn is in her own little class all by herself! Troy was a little hesitant at first (I'm sure it had nothing to do with it being 65 degrees out and having Daddy there. He's become quite the Daddy's boy as of late.) But now he is loving it! Brooklyn went in full-steam, as she does with everything and is enjoying every last minute. Her teacher's name is Kyle and she thinks he's pretty cute.

Practicing "reach and pull"

Happy Independence Day!

Wehad a great 4th of July, and I hope you all did as well!! We started out early Saturday morning at the annual July 4th flag raising at our church. We always really enjoy starting off our July 4th festivities at this. There is always a special spirit that resides for our God and country and this year wasn't any different. A few veterans spoke, and they made my heart swell with pride to know that we live in the greatest country in the world!! We are all so lucky to enjoy the freedoms that we do, while there are so many in this world without freedom. I am so thankful for our inspired founding fathers for doing the brave and right thing and making this nation a free and sovereign nation! I am proud to be an American! I want to especially thank all those soldiers who fight for our lives and freedoms every day. Thank you for all your service!!

Troy and Brooklyn chillin' eating popsicles.

Me and my pretty little girl.

We had a few families over for a BBQ, but were forced inside because of the dang rain. This is our first year in Seattle that it has rained on the 4th! Darn Seattle! But thank heavens for a covered porch to cook our food under.

Daddy and the kids.

Brooklyn and Addi "hugging." Or strangling, whichever you like to call it. lol

The Burkman's.

The Richardson's, minus their sweet baby girl. *she was napping

I made Brooklyn's 4th of July dress. Too bad it was too cold to wear it without a shirt underneath!

Their first look at their sparklers.

Troy waved his all around saying "fire, fire, fire" in a whisper. Too funny. Maybe I'll get the video up one day. He's our little pyro!

Another catch-up post

Camping with Daddy. Their first Father/Son's camp out. Troy had a blast! And Brooklyn and I had a great girls night out!

Smoothie mustache's. Troy is also sporting a go-tee.

Troy LOVES playing in the dirt. This is his element!

I wish I knew what was going on their little brains. They're so mischievous!!

Me after the "death" race. Ok, ok, I'm exaggerating. But I felt like death at this point. Erik and the kids were there to meet me at the finish line, but he was busy getting them snacks when I crossed so didn't get a picture. That's ok, I'm sure I wasn't a pretty sight at that point anyway! lol It sure was fun though to have them all at the finish line. I love my sweet family!