My Pilgrim Maddie

 I can't believe I haven't posted since Halloween.  Time flies this time of year! Here is Maddie at her Kindergarten feast.

 She has a new best friend this year, Avery.  Luckily she also one o four neighbors so they get to have a lot of playing time.  They were not into their pilgrim hats but put them on so I could take one picture.

 She is such a nut!  I love it!

 Somehow, their assigned spots on the Kiva are right next to each other.  Here is a little glimpse into their lives.  Such cuties!

What a Great Halloween!

 We love Halloween around these parts and here is a snapshot of our day. Jackson and two buddies in the Halloween parade at school.

 Maddie during her class party.

 Maddie under her "mini-me" paper doll dressed up in the same costume.

 Maddie and Ellie trying to talk me into letting them go t-o-t at 5pm.

 Jackson as Cpt. America

 Jacee as a flapper - made by Grama Binki - thank you!!!

 Jackson just waiting to go.

 Each in character.

 Maddie as Frankenstein.

 Jacee and Kenzee heading out.

 The Trick-or-Treating gang.

 Jackson after about 45 min of trick-or-treating.s  He was done.  He ate a few pieces of candy and then gave the rest to Maddie.  He certainly didn't get my sweet tooth!

It was so warm this year - a record high for Utah.  We loved it - no coats.  We sent the kids by themselves with a cell phone.  It was so fun to be with John handing out scones.  We handed out 250 scones.  It is such a fun tradition.  But - it is so crazy that I never get any pictures.  We love this neighborhood with such great people.  We love that it is a bit like how we grew up - feeling safe letting the kids just go for it.

Here is the house this morning.  I already have all the Halloween stuff down, now to box it up!  I leave the fall stuff up but it still seems empty.  Can't wait to decorate for Christmas!!!

School Pics 2012

Maddie, Kindergarten 2012, 5yo

 I know that people are not having school pictures taken because they get "cuter" ones off in a field or some other serene setting.  For some reason, I just love the actual school pics.  Luckily my husband doesn't grumble when he pays for these increasingly expensive pics.  Here are the latest versions.  I personally think they are darling!!!

 Jackson, 2nd grade, 8 yo

Jacee, 4th Grade, 9 yo

Jackson's Big Day

 What a wonderful day we had with Jackson!  His baptisms was on Saturday, Oct. 13, 2012.  He was baptized with one of his best friends, Camden.  I can't believe I didn't get a picture of them together.

 We are very lucky to have lots of friends and family around us - one of the reasons we live here!
Jacee gave the talk on baptism and she did a fabulous job.

 I love these next progression of pictures.  Jacee is being her usual funny, vivacious self.

 Then Maddie sees what she is doing, so check out Maddie in the next picture...

 Yep, just like her older sister.  I'm glad she has such a great role model to follow.

 Jackson is blessed with many people around him who love him so much.  Here he is with his Primary teacher, Stephanie Howell.  We love her!

 And our fabulous family!  I often times just stare at them and can't believe they are all mine!  From a fantastic husband to three of the best kids ever!!!  I certainly don't deserve all of them but I'll never let them go!

Grama and Grampa made quite a trip to be here.  The woke up early and drove Saturday morning and then left about 1:30 so Grampa could make it back to the Sugar Factory by 6pm.  They are doing 24 hour shifts right now and it is crazy.  I'm so glad he was able to get off to come to Jackson's baptism. We love them so much and are glad they are home from their mission.  We just wish they were closer so we could have them in our daily lives!  (Hint, Hint)

I know my parents are were they are suppose to be and they are doing such a great job in El Salvador, but we really miss them, especially on days like this.  We feel their spirit and know they wish they could be with us, but they are serving the Lord and we are grateful they are worthy and willing to do so.  I love you Mom and Dad.  You were missed today.

  I think Jackson is such a wonderful boy.  Aunt Lori commented that she thinks he has a special spirit and there are great things in store for him.  She has thought that since he was a baby.  I am so glad to hear things like this.  Maybe this is why I worry so much more about Jackson than I do my girls.  He has such a tender heart and feels things so deeply.  I am so grateful he is mine.

I am so grateful my husband is worthy to confirm our son.  John gave a wonderful confirmation (or so I've heard - there was a little baby screaming directly behind me so I didn't really get to hear much.  Other people have told me it was beautiful!)  Thanks Honey for being a great husband and father.  I love you!

When Did He Grow Up?

 When did my buddy boy grow up?  I look at these pictures and I can't even believe how big he is.  He is such a wonderful son.  Tender hearted, fun-loving, and what a laugh!  I can't imagine my life without this sweet boy.  I love you Jackson John Peterson.

Jackson is a Gold Belt

 Jackson earned his Gold Belt in karate last week.  We are so proud of him.  He loves his class and we are thrilled he is doing something he loves.  Great Job Jackson!!!