chris.reese.girls1.2.3.4

To say the last week of October and the first week of November were exhausting was an understatement, but I wouldn't change it now. Paige had one last birthday event: A friend party.  She had been talking about having an "American Girl" party since she decided she wanted an American Girl doll for her birthday. And since my kids only get "friend" parties every other year, she had become super excited about gathering her favorite gal pals and their dolls.   We hosted a mid-afternoon luncheon on early-release Friday. Good thing I had over prepared on the food because the girls were starving.   I had an Italian Soda bar for an Activity Day recognition night the month prior and it was a total hit. Paige was super pumped to have one with her friends. Cute Carys below.  It's a sea of girls, dolls and food. We had little mini plates and cups with straws for the dolls. There wasn't a lot of room for them unfortunately... Such ge...

Baptism day finally arrived! We woke up to a blustery and wet day. We had Grandpa and Grandma Dalley at the house helping with lots to do. Chris went out for George's donuts and made yummy eggs for breakfast. The lights were flickering all morning as we prepped the chili in the crockpots for later and prayed the power would stay on.  My prayers were answered. We didn't lose power, but because of the weather we couldn't take many pictures outside. The wind was crazy and it was pouring! I am usually averse to indoor church pics...bad lighting, etc., but it was a make-it-work moment and our sweet little Paige could care less. She was thrilled as she greeted all her family and friends that came to support her on her special day. We are grateful for them as many traveled long distances and managed hectic schedules to be there! Grandpa and Grandma Dalley  Grandpa and Grandma Apken  Great-Grandma Apken Grandma Love! Great-Grandpa and Grandma Hendricks (t...

Paige is Eight. In our world, turning eight is a momentous occasion. It is at this age that you: Choose to follow Jesus Christ and be baptized Become an official member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints . Receive the Gift of the Holy Ghost and have the constant companionship of the Spirit This decision has been a topic we have addressed regularly in our home throughout the years and most particularly, the past year. This is not a decision we made for Paige. She understood what was required to be baptized and what is required after you are baptized. She has faith in Christ and knows she wants to follow in His ways and live according to His commandments. She also knows she will receive great joy and happiness from choosing the right.  We bought her a white dress to symbolize her new beginning that comes after baptism. And I spent an afternoon documenting her in this cute white dress. It is a memory I want to forever engrave on my brain. At times she ...