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.

Monday, October 6, 2025

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.

Wednesday, October 1, 2025

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

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