Ryder's Sealing May 2008 NYC

In the month of May Ryder's Sealing to us was in the New York Temple and it was a spiritual and exciting day! We had waited 15 months to seal him to our family. Thank you for our family and friends who shared this special day with us. The most memorable part was waiting in the sealing room and hearing Ryder walking down the hall inside the temple to us. My mom did such a great job getting him all dressed up. I will never forget the image of him walking into the sealing room. He really looked like a little angel and I couldn't help but have tears in my eyes knowing how blessed we are to have him in our family. He has and continues to bring us enormous joy. We are so thankful for the gospel and for the opportunity to be a forever family.

Introducing Simba...our newest addition

My BYU Accounting friends would remember how my graduation present was going to be a puppy, but then we moved to New York and our apartment building didn't allow pets. Well, almost 5 years later we get to add a puppy to our family. Owen, Ryder, and I love dogs and we can't help but feel more "complete" as a family with a dog.

We adopted a Rhodesian Ridgeback. Their origins come from Africa where they were trained to hunt lions. They are known to be great family dogs as well as protectors. We have had her for almost 2 weeks and she is very protective of Ryder. Of course Ryder can't stop smiling and is in heaven!

I feel like I have twins! Puppies are ALOT of work. The other day I was so frusterated because Ryder AND Simba were not listening to me. This is going to take some patience...but, I think it will all be worth it. At least it better be! :)

Bandelier National Monument

The McCain/Palin ralley in Abq. It was packed!! They all look skinnier in real life. Todd gave me a high five and Sarah gave Camille her autograph.

Ryder at Kenai Lake. Brrrrrrrrr

Our new house


Owen's new bike

Our empty living room

Ryder's new back yard

Camping at Kenai Lake

Taylor, Anna, and Daniel

Camping on Kenai Lake with the Sheldons

Nicole and Taylor

Ryder testing the waters... Brrrr

Anna and Owen in the alpacka

Kayaking the Kenai River Canyon and Skilak Lake

An old fish head on Skilak Lake

Skilak Lake