Fun Times in Utah!

Drew and I took a quick trip to Utah to visit family this last week. We had so much fun! We were able to go to my sister-in-law, TaNeil's, baby shower. I was especially excited to go because it's the last shower for our family!

My brother-in-law, Todd, has been to Isreal six (I think) times in the last few years or so and put an amazing presentation together, complete with beautiful pictures and historical information. It was so interesting and so well put together! I was so happy to be able to there. Thanks, Todd!

We had such fun hanging out with family, celebrating cousin Jacob's birthday, mastering the stairs (Hooray Drew!!), playing with cousins, and keeping ourselves busy, busy, busy!

My sister, Jodi, hosted a cousin splash party at her house and was so nice to plan it around when Drew and I were there. It was so fun! Drew had the best time! He loves water so he was in heaven. I didn't take any pictures while we were out there, but

luckily my sister, Steph, took these at the party.

Hoop Dreams and Ice Cream

Since Drew's birthday is the day after Christmas, we decided that this year, we'd halfway celebrate his half birthday. We gave him presents at the end of June and on his actual birthday, we'll have cake.

I really like how it turned out.

Drew loves balls. I mean, L-O-V-E-S them. Particularly basketballs and baseballs. He's an easy-going kid. Not a whole lot bothers him. But if you try to take his ball, he'll clutch it and run.

So for his half birthday, we got him a basketball hoop, a couple of basketballs, a t-ball set, and a couple other toys he plays with occasionally. :)

He's been in heaven ever since. He didn't even hesitate when he saw his gifts. He ran right over and played. (By the way, we were so lucky to have my sister, Jodi, and her kids visiting so we got to have a mini party for his half birthday! It was SO fun!)

He's dreamin' a little bit bigger these days. One day he'll get there.

Drew's two other favorite things are Amelia, his very best friend, and ice cream. Last night, he was able to have both and, boy, was he happy!

New Family Photos

I know, I know. I'm a terrible blogger. I'll work on it. I promise.

We've been busy lately. We moved into a house, we've had lots of fun family visit us, we're spending lots of time outside enjoying the mild summer weather, and Drew is growing up right before our eyes.

He's 18 months old. He's running, talking (a little), babbling (a lot), playing, shooting baskets, hitting baseballs, playing in the dirt, and learning about his independance.

We're having oh so much fun!

We had Brenley take Drew's 18 month photos (as well as a few family photos) last week. They turned out wonderful again. She's brilliant.

Here are a few of my favorites.

Thanks, Brenley!! You're the best!!

Drew's Day

Today has been a very special day for our family.

One year ago today, we were blessed to take Drew to the temple and be sealed to him.

I still remember that day so vividly - I hope I never forget any part of it.

I wrote about that day here.

We have been so blessed to have him in our family - he has taught us so much.

I love adoption. I love having these fun anniversaries to celebrate.

I love my forever family!

Drew's One Year Photos

We are so lucky to have such a great friend that happens to be an amazing photographer. We've had Brenley take all of Drew's pictures and she was so kind as to take his 1 year pictures this last weekend. I know I posted a lot, but I just couldn't narrow it down more than this. They're all amazing!

Thank you, Brenley!