2025 School Pictures

I got their pictures back today. I feel like I've been checking their backpacks everyday for the last two weeks so I love that they are finally here! I might be bias but these three are little cuties.

How To Train Your Dragon Theme

This year our family Halloween theme is based on Addie's love of dragons and the new remake of How To Train Your Dragon that came out this year. According to Addie this is her most favorite theme yet, and I'd have to agree that it did turn out pretty good. I was a little worried because this was the first time that we didn't know what the theme would be by the start of September when usually we already have everything purchased even months in advance.

It wouldn't truly be a family theme if the cats weren't involved.

AI generated animations of the kids in their costumes.

General Conference

We started a new General Conference tradition inspired by my childhood memories of my dad throwing candy at us when we'd say the word of the talk, but without the throwing of the candy. Together the kids would come up with five different words and anytime that word was used they would grab a treat or small toy from the bucket assigned to the word said. They then chose five new words for the next session. The kids especially loved when a speaker would use two of their words in the same sentence. It was the best they've ever been engaged. Next spring I'll have to add a salty option to the mix.

Eleventh Birthday Letter to Addie Rae

Hey Birthday Girl,

I can't believe you are now eleven. It's going to feel so weird in a few short months when you are no longer in primary and will join the young women's, but at the same time I am so excited for you. Some of my best core memories come from the young women's program. You'll also be able to enter the temple now which feels wild to me. I wish there was one even closer to where we live so that you can fully appreciate the beauty that is the temple. This is a really big year for you as you also are in your last year of elementary school. As much as I want you to stay young it is exciting to see you achieve each new milestone. This year for your birthday you wanted to be surrounded by friends and of course you already have so many even though we've only lived here for a year so far. You're amazing at finding and making true connections with others. I admire that a lot about you. You're also a pretty good sport, because your dad and I thought it would be funny for him to dress up as Blippi and be silly in front of all of your friends and you handled it like a true champ. Thank you for playing around with us even when surrounded by your friends.

You're truly growing up and as you continue to keep reaching new milestones and having new experiences I hope you never forget how loved you are by your family. We wouldn't be the family we are if you weren't part of it. You're important, incredible, and so intelligent. I love you Addie Rae, and I always will.

Love,

Mom