Leah is SIX!

Our sweet little Leah had a birthday on March 21!  She is officially SIX years old!  The past six years with this little gal have been so so great...she is such a light in our lives and we love her to pieces!

We started Leah's special day off by opening some gifts!  

She got a hula hoop, swim goggles, and some legos.  She was pretty excited!

She, not surprisingly, requested waffles and eggs for breakfast.  It's definitely her favorite!

As soon as they were done with breakfast, it was time to put her legos together.  Noah was more than happy to help.  It was pretty cute watching Noah show her how to do everything.

All done!

The one thing that Leah requested for her birthday this year was to have a party with her friends and cousins.  We invited 15 kids over...and it was so much fun!  I was a little worried that it would be chaotic, but it worked out great.  Leah requested a painting party, so we painted wood initials, which was a hit.  I failed to take pictures of them painting...it was a busy time.  Then it was time to open presents and Leah was so thrilled and appreciative for what she was given.  

Then it was time to eat cupcakes!  Yum!!

We ended the party by having a piñata.  Doug wrapped up a box like a present, which was very very durable and all the kids were able to take a whack at it!  

I love the expression on all the kids faces once it finally broke!  So fun!

My mom came to help with the party, but spent most of her time with Kate.  I was so thankful she was there to calm her down and entertain her :).  Leah was thrilled opening her last gifts from Grandma and Grandma Great :).

We ended Leah's special day by having a "sleepover" upstairs and watching Frozen.  It was a wonderful day for our wonderful girl.

We love you baby...to the moon and back!!!

Hermana Garces

I always want to remember today!  We have waited for five {long} months for Elizabeth to leave on her mission. We have been able to spend some quality time with her over the past few months, and although we are going to miss her like crazy, we are so excited for her and this great adventure in her life.

Sister Garces was set apart tonight as a missionary, and it was such a wonderful experience to be there and feel the spirit. She has such a strong testimony and the people of Chile are so SO lucky to have her. I know these next 18 months will seem like forever, but I can not wait to hear all of the wonderful stories that she creates during that time!  

We love you SO much Sister Garces, and we will be thinking and praying for you every day that you are gone. 

Kissy Face

Our little Kate is FULL of personality.  She is seriously so so funny and will do about anything to make us laugh.  I just love this about her.  Her new thing is to pull this little face {the kissy face} just to make us laugh.  It works every time...love that face!

Together

It's a rare occurrence around here that all four kids are sitting together voluntarily...and quietly!  This was one of those precious moments that I want to cherish.  Love these kiddos to the moon.