Brothers...

I love these little boys so much. We have especially bonded this year while the girls are at school. They just make me smile - all the time. Aren't they handsome?!

TREX - raising the roof


KAM - in his swing

MELANIE, READ THIS ONE!

I have had the fortunate experience to live next door to my grandpa for practically my whole life. I consider this such a blessing since I've been able to meet, hang out with, and get to know most all of my wonderful cousins - AND I HAVE A WHOLE BUNCH. (Also, props to my parents since we often visited the cousins as well). Recently, I have had the opportunity to see and be in the presence of one of the most special cousins. Her name is Melanie Fisher. She is strong, funny, and smart; she also likes smurfing :) Can't wait to you come down again, Mel!
**Thanks to Kait for the awesome pics!


Kait, Mel, Kiana


Melanie, April, Jeremy


Lots of cousins :)

You don't choose your family. They are God's gift to you, as you are to them. ~Desmond Tutu

A Baptism, A Surgery, FAMILY, and A Birthday!

I've been slacking a little bit. We're still busy but doing well. Here are some of our September happenings:

On the opening weekend of this month, some of my siblings made me incredibly proud. First, Akaydeh was baptized by my brother Dalaki. It was great to witness such a special event. Later that day, Dalaki and Koda got their awards for being Eagle Scouts. We even got a family picture - which will be posted later :)

Kaydeh and Dalaki; my cute kids all dressed up

Also, this month we had to deal with Tay's teeth. The chemo took its toll on her mouth. She had 3 abscessed teeth, which got pulled, and 5 cavities, which got filled. She was so brave - no crying. Plus, the next day she woke up requesting to go to pre-school. Once again, she proves her toughness.
What a trooper!

Last week, we found out that my Uncle Mike passed away. He had been struggling for some time, and I know he's in a better place now. My heart and prayers still go out to his kids, who have been missing him for some time. A consolation was that we got to see, reminisce, laugh, love, cry, and remember good family times as cousins, aunts, uncles, and others poured into town for his funeral. Also, he served as a cop for 18 years, so he got escorted to his final resting place by many law officials. It was a beautiful day and experience.

Just a few pics of cousins - wish I took more!

And last, but not least - my first little sister celebrated her 22nd birthday! I'm thankful for all my sisters, how special they, and how much they help me in my life. THANKS FOR BEING BORN, KIANA!

First Day of Pre-School

Every milestone is a special one for Tay. She is going to pre-school again this year, but she has a whole new class. She loves her teaching and loves to learn. She's a sweetheart.