March 24, 2009--Rya Kayleen is born!

Rya is finally here! She was born at 8:30 a.m. on March 24, 2009. Stacey , Abbie and I had the privilege of being there for her birth. Chrissy was so amazing--she did such a great job, and Gregg was right there by her side every minute, helping her so sweetly. We experienced so many emotions--It was stressful, thrilling, tiring, amazing, beautiful!---I have to say that I am overcome with tears of joy as I write this. To have had the privilege of watching Rya, Ashton, Coral and Kayla come into this world has been so amazing! It truly is a spiritual experience for me to watch such a miracle. To watch as their moms have gone through so much physically to get them here. It is a sacrifice, it is hard---to carry a baby for 9 months and to know that at the end you must labor and go through pain you have never imagined --to be able to hold that baby in your arms. It is an experience that brings you closer to God---He knows all things. How he blesses us. Of course I too have gone through these times myself, and I know what these beautiful moms go through. Why are we willing to have these near-death experiences? When each of my babies was placed in my arms I fell in love! over and over and over again. Love doesn't divide itself-it multiplies. My heart is so full of joy and love and gratitude to be a mother of such beautiful children, and a grandma to such adorable little ones. How they bless my life!

the many faces of Jenna...

My little miracle girl has turned 8! wow! She has certainly changed our lives. As I browse some of her pictures, I notice how they capture her spirit--she is full of spirit--and knows how to be happy--it is simple--Just love everybody! She can be a rascal and has a cute sense of humor (she has a bit of her Great-Grandma Whitney) She is quick to forgive- and knows unconditional love. She is a miracle. We have been blessed to have her in our family. Someone once told me that Heavenly Father must really love us to send us such a blessing---I feel it is true. Happy birthday Jenna! I love you so much!

Wedding Bliss

I just have to say how beautiful and wonderful Rachel and Zaks' wedding day was. The Temple sealing was so wonderful and sweet. The temple grounds were beautiful. Having so many loved ones there was so special. These are the moments that bring the kind of joy that nothing else in this world can bring. My heart is full of gratitude for such a blessing. Zak is an amazing
young man---perfect for my Rachel! The reception was a great celebration---the newlywed Elcocks are off to a great start!

My best friend---another hero

My Dad---my hero

Friday, March 6, 2009--- What an amazing event! A sweet, wonderful, beautiful bride, a good, wonderful, handsome groom, a beautiful sealing, beautiful family to witness it, beautiful blue skies, beautiful temple---it was one of those truly joyful moments that I treasure in life. Joy and Happiness!

This is a picture of Rachel's bouquet. I just love it!
There are several reasons why.
1. I love all flowers, but roses and daisies are my favorites!
2. The colors are so beautiful together, so fresh and pretty,
feminine---they remind me so much of Rachel.
3. My sweet and talented niece Shannon who put them together for us
helps make our weddings beautiful.
4. Zaks' family was so generous to help make all the flowers possible
and how grateful I am for how they raised such a wonderful young man---
5. Heavenly Fathers' beautiful creations make me so happy!
6. The bouquet is a culmination of feelings that I have about the wedding itself--
Rachel marrying the right man, at the right time, in the right place,
and how the whole occasion was so beautiful--to my eyes and to my heart.