Monday, November 17, 2025

Primary Program

Yesterday was a milestone primary program for our family. It was the first and only program that all five kids would be in at the same time. It was Addie's last primary program before she graduates primary and heads into Young Women's and it was the twins' first primary program since they were in nursery just a year ago. It was also my first time being in charge of a primary program and it was Danny's first time being given the role of our host in charge of the after primary program party. :)

I'm proud of how it turned out and feel like I can breathe a little bit better now. The kids did awesome and they sounded great. Their best song was probably the last one which was My Own Sacred Grove. It might be my current favorite as well. 

For months I've been planning an activity for after the program. I knew that I wanted to do something fun with the kids so I came up with the Fargo Primary Games. We invited the bishopric to compete against the primary in a trivia game. We had a spinner, buzzers and trivia questions in four different categories (random primary trivia, primary program trivia, fill in the blank and name that tune). We also shared comments and compliments from the ward congregation which worked out with having the fun part but also spiritual moments sprinkled throughout. I doubt we will be here next year for a second primary program but if we are we'll have to do this again because the teachers and kids all really enjoyed it. The primary programs over the years has always been my favorite Sundays and I was a little sad when I realized that I wouldn't be watching from the seats but being able to witness firsthand how hard these kids worked behind the scenes makes me feel so proud of all of them and all the primary kids in our ward. I'm starting to really enjoy this calling.

Also I cannot believe that even knowing this would be our first and last primary program with all five I still didn't get a single picture of the kids like I always do on our primary program Sundays.

Thursday, October 30, 2025

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.

Wednesday, October 29, 2025

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.

Wednesday, August 27, 2025

First Day of School

It's the first day of 2nd, 3rd and 5th grade for these kiddos!

Be Kind. Be Brave. Be You.

One year difference. 💛
Waiting for the bus.
They're home!
Matching Sisters

Monday, July 28, 2025

Seventh Birthday Letter to Beans

Dear Grant,

This has been a big year for you full of high and lows. You've dealt with some new anxieties and new struggles, but I want you to know that you are the bravest boy I know. You're also still one of the happiest boys I know. You still fill our days up with giggles and smiles and you're very quick to forgive others. You love to be where others are and want to be included in all things. Your teachers describe you as a great friend and I would have to agree. 

You also know exactly what to say to make any adult melt over you and think that you are the cutest kid in the world and I love watching you when you do that because it's adorable, hilarious and pretty close to true. You might have been the favorite among the aunts at our family reunion because you paid them all so many compliments. Anytime anyone tells you that you're so cute you'll turn on your adorable voice and cute puppy dog eyes and reply back "well you're the prettiest lady in the world". Grant I can't even imagine what you'll be like as a teenager because you're already quite the charmer and you know it. In all seriousness though I can't even count the number of times where I might have needed a little encouragement and you've come up to me out of the blue to say "Mom I love you, you're the best mom in the world". I hope to be that same kind of person to you that you need during times where you're feeling scared, lonely or down. I want to be someone you can count on to come find you and cheer you up like you do to so many people. I love you and I want you to know that at nighttime when anxiety seems to be at a high for you I hope you know and feel that I'm just across the hall with a hug that always has your name on it. I love you sweet boy, and I always will no matter what.

Love,

Mom