Called to Serve

We had the amazing opportunity of witnessing the setting apart of my in-laws, Dave and Pam Larsen as missionaries to South Africa.  Although things are a bit lonely around here without grandma and grandpa around, we are so happy for them and so grateful for the wonderful example they set for us!  Here we are just before the setting apart with Joseph's sister, Kara and her family

The Monday before they left, Joseph set up a MTC experience for the kids.  They even got to wear his old missionary badges.

 Pretty cute little gospel learners, eh?

Good luck, grandma and grandpa!  We'll be praying for you!!!

Goodly Parents

We had my parents for a visit last week.  It was sure fun!  James finally got to be reminded of what his namesake grandpa is like.  

We took did our customary bonfire at the beach while grandma and grandpa were here.  Unfortunately, the weather was uncooperative and it was freezing! ... but the food was still good!

Ruthie loves men and ukuleles

the boys snuggle up to grandma to get warm

The very next day was rainy and yucky so we ventured out to a children's museum up in Santa Ana... a little boring for adults, but awsome for little kiddies.

As soon as the rain stopped, James and Ruthie ventured outside for some puddle fun

We call Ruthie our "perch" because where there is an empty lap, she will be there.  She especially loved grandma's lap and took advantage of every opportunity.


Thanks for the fun visit!!

Easter

I can't believe that Easter has already come and gone.  We were lucky to have the most exquisite weather during Easter weekend.  

I took these pictures to archive Grandma and Grandpa Larsen's backyard.  It is so lush and beautiful.  Nothing like having an easter egg hunt in paradise.

Inspecting the loot:  Grandma Larsen always puts money inside some of the eggs, which is very exciting.

back up a few more days; this is egg dying in our back porch

back up a few more days to Thursday.  We gave the kids a little education by serving a passover dinner.  They really enjoyed it, particularly the Matzos.  Funny thing to note... As soon as I lit the candles, Ruthie was terrified.  She wouldn't touch the table for the rest of the evening.

James

James is growing into my little man. He often walks inside and presents me with flowers and tells me he loves me. He is also particular about saying goodnight; it always has to end with an eskimo kiss. I am enjoying this new stage of James. He is so much more pleasant to be with. He also takes good care of Ruthie. Last night, for instance, Ruth was throwing a monster tantrum because she wanted his easter candy. Finally he said, "it's okay mommy, I am done with it" and handed it to her.

Here is James as a "soldier":

mowing the lawn with daddy

taking his beloved "ha-hee" for a stroll (good thing that little sisters can provide the right equipment)

Randoms

Life seems to fly by at an amazing pace. These are some of my favorite pictures last month:

The other day, Ruthie came into the kitchen looking like this...

One by one, the boys followed. They explained that they were Ruth's guards.

We extended our back patio cover and rehung Joseph's swing. The kids love it! .... James especially.

When David puts on his shoes, Ruth puts on her shoes, too.

Birthday Time

I celebrated my birthday few weeks ago. The day was great. While I was getting ready for the day, David rounded up James and Ruth to help them make birthday cards for me. It was so sweet. We ended the day with decadent German Chocolate cake: 4 layers of yumminess.

These are the kids leading me to my surprise birthday cards

Ruthie was glad for free reign of the glue

Goodbye

A few weeks ago, we said goodbye to a good friend. David and her daughter, Monica, have been buddies since toddlerhood. We've had countless outings together at the park, the beach, and at each other's homes for playdates and babysitting swaps. Goodbye, Marisol, we will miss you!

Rewind a few years, and this is the same three kids. Amazing how fast time goes...

Now with the siblings, we are quite a crowd!