Christian Artist, Poet and Full-time Mom

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Articles: 1, 2, 3, 4

Road to Jericho
2008-03-07 17:51:00
This morning I read the parable of the Good Samaritan. In a world that seems to be filled with hate, anger and violence I like to imagine hope restored, peace to reign and love to abound by seeking to forgive, lift, care and exercise compassion. We can make a difference... one person at a time. I really believe that.“A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho , and fell among thieves, which stripped him of his raiment, and wounded him, and departed, leaving him half dead. “And by chance there came down a certain priest that way: and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. “And likewise a Levite, when he was at the place, came and looked on him, and passed by on the other side. “But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was: and when he saw him, he had compassion on him, “And went to him, and bound up his wounds, pouring in oil and wine, and set him on his own beast, and brought him to an inn, and took care of him. “And on the morrow when he d...
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For the love...
2008-03-06 01:39:00
I don't have alot of time to spend on the computer today. So I'll just share with you a couple of my favorite scriptures. Hope you all have a wonderful day.God bless you!Alicia"There is no other way or means whereby man can be saved, only in and through Christ. Behold, he is the life and the light of the world. Behold, he is the word of truth and righteousness." - Alma 39:9"Wherefore, how great the importance to make these things known unto the inhabitants of the earth, that they may know that there is no flesh that can dwell in the presence of God, save it be through the merits, and mercy, and grace of the Holy Messiah, who layeth down his life according to the flesh, and taketh it again by the power of the Spirit, that he may bring to pass the resurrection of the dead, being the first that should rise." - 2Nephi 2:8"Wherefore, ye must press forward with a steadfastness in Christ, having a perfect brightness of hope, and a love of God and of all men. Wherefore, if ye shall pres...
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Articles of Faith
2008-03-03 17:58:00
THE ARTICLES OF FAITH OF THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTSHistory of the Church, Vol. 4, pp. 535—541 "1 We believe in God, the Eternal Father, and in His Son, Jesus Christ, and in the Holy Ghost. 2 We believe that men will be punished for their own sins, and not for Adam’s transgression. 3 We believe that through the Atonement of Christ, all mankind may be saved, by obedience to the laws and ordinances of the Gospel. 4 We believe that the first principles and ordinances of the Gospel are: first, Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ; second, Repentance; third, Baptism by immersion for the remission of sins; fourth, Laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost. 5 We believe that a man must be called of God, by prophecy, and by the laying on of hands by those who are in authority, to preach the Gospel and administer in the ordinances thereof. 6 We believe in the same organization that existed in the Primitive Church, namely, apostles, prophets, pastors, teachers,...
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Prodigal Son
2008-03-03 02:44:00
Today in Sacrament Meeting a young man got up and bore his testimony of the saving power of Jesus Christ. He said it had been 10 years since he had come to church and how grateful he was to be back. I didn't know him personally but was extremely touched by his pure and simple testimony. It made me recall the parables of the Prodigal Son , and the Lost Sheep in the New Testament and also the story of Alma, the younger, from the Book of Mormon. I felt like celebrating for this brave young man and to encourage him to "press forward with a steadfastness in Christ, having a perfect brightness of hope, and a love of God and of all men"... and to "press forward, feasting upon the word of Christ, and endure to the end." 2 Nephi 31:20Jesus taught, "What man of you, having an hundred sheep, if he lose one of them, doth not leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and go after that which is lost, until he find it? And when he hath found it, he layeth it on his shoulders, rejoicing." - Luke...

A Most Amazing Treasure!
2008-03-01 19:24:00
If I could have a face to face conversation with you... If I could look into your eyes and share with you my heart, it would be my desire to tell you about this wonderful, most amazing treasure I have found:This treasure has blessed me with hope, peace, comfort, happiness, knowledge, wisdom, direction, guidance, truth, goodness, purity, love and much, much more.This treasure is priceless to me and the more I am able to share it, the greater my joy is in this wonderful gift.... because I see it expand and grow like a fruitful field, blessing the lives of countless others. I want to share it with the world.This is my Treasure :I know that God lives. I know that He is the Father of my Spirit, that I lived with him before I was born on this earth.(See: King James Version- Jeremiah 1:5, Acts 17:28, Romans 8:16). I know that we all have a purpose in this life. As any loving Father would, Godhas not sent us into this world to grope around in the dark, not knowing which way to go... He, our ...
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Great place to visit!
2008-02-28 20:51:00
This is a wonderful site I found today about the life and mission of our Savior. Beautiful pictures, beautiful videos, beautiful words and testimony... It's wonderful, I'm so excited, I want to share it with all of you. Please take a look!http://jesuschrist.lds.org/
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Sleeping Beauties
2008-02-27 05:39:00
I don't have much to blog about today. I've had a good day but have been extremely busy carpooling back and forth to schools, running to Doctors appointments, cleaning up my car from sick kids, bathing children, feeding children, changing dirty diapers, reading stories, playing games and tucking my sweet little ones into bed. I'm exhausted! I'm leaving the dishes undone and the house a mess and I'm going to bed, it will all be there tomorrow. I'm exhausted but I feel great, I'm so blessed to have what I do. It's so awesome to see my three little miracles all taken care of and sleeping peacefully, Man! there is nothing better than being a mommy. It's amazing how much work it takes to care for my little family.... but it's so worth it! It's so worth it!
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How Great the Wisdom and the Love
2008-02-25 05:19:00
Today I had been feeling a little down on myself for some of the stupid things I do. Sometimes I beat myself up for feeling crabby or grumpy..... and then it only makes me feel more crabby and grumpy.... hmmm... imagine that!The good news is that during Sacrament meeting at Church today, we sang this Hymn that I've sung many times before.... but this time it was especially meaningful because I had such a heavy heart. After singing the words to this beautiful hymn I felt the peace that comes through knowing I have a Savior who loves me inspite of all my flaws. He has paid the price and I don't have to be discouraged because of the flesh. He has overcome and He is merciful. And He will help me to overcome my weaknesses, my sins, my flaws as I keep my eyes on Him, have faith in Him (true faith that leads me to repentance of all my sin), and trust in Him."How Great the Wisdom and the Love "- Hymn #195 - Text by Eliza R. Snow 1804-1887"How great the wisdom and the loveThat filled the co...

Faith through Trials
2008-02-23 18:15:00
My friend and I had a great conversation the other day about trusting in the Lord and faith through trials. It caused me to remember this wonderful talk given in the world-wide April General Conference in 2004 by Elder Dennis E. Simmons, of the Seventy."Faith is not bravado, not just a wish, not just a hope. True faith is faith in the Lord Jesus Christ—confidence and trust in Jesus Christ that leads a person to follow Him. 1Centuries ago, Daniel and his young associates were suddenly thrust from security into the world—a world foreign and intimidating. When Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego refused to bow down and worship a golden image set up by the king, a furious Nebuchadnezzar told them that if they would not worship as commanded, they would immediately be cast into a burning fiery furnace. “And who is that God that shall deliver you out of my hands?” 2The three young men quickly and confidently responded, “If it be so [if you cast us into the furnace], our God whom we ...
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Show & Tell
2008-02-22 23:13:00
It was my oldest child's turn in his elementary class yesterday for "Show & Tell." He wanted to bring his younger brother and sister to show off to his class. I called his teacher to see if that would be alright and arranged a time I could bring his "Show & Tell" over to the school. Witnessing things like this are just one of the many joys of being a mom. I think it's sweet. And I'd do the same. Hey, they are the first on my list to show off to my friends.

What stops us from trusting God?
2008-02-20 21:17:00
The following is a summarized excerpt from a book I've been studying, "He did deliver me from bondange."- by, Colleen C. Harrison: I think you'll agree that she makes some excellent points concerning this topic."What stops us from trusting God? If God will not fail us, then why do we hesitate and resist trusting Him?1. Looking for answers in the intellect and learning of men.2. Fear of others' opinions or craving the esteem or approval of others.3. Pride. Relying on our own strength and power.4. We don't want what the Lord wants (self-will).5. It's too hard.6. Fear and worry.President Ezra T. Benson said, 'When we put God first, all other things fall into their proper place or drop out of our lives.' (Ensign, May 1988)The hard, cold truth is that sometimes as mortals, blinded by the veil of forgetfulness, we don't want things to fall into their 'proper place' just yet. Miserable as we like to pretend mortal life makes us, the truth is it feels pretty comfortable the way it...
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The Healing Power of Forgiveness
2008-02-18 19:24:00
If you choose to read only one post on my blog.... read this one!!!! This is an excerpt from a beautiful talk given April 2007, by President James E. Faust of the First Presidency of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. I encourage you to read this wonderful true story about the healing power of forgiveness:"My dear brothers and sisters and friends, I come before you humbly and prayerfully. I wish to speak on the healing power of forgiveness.In the beautiful hills of Pennsylvania, a devout group of Christian people live a simple life without automobiles, electricity, or modern machinery. They work hard and live quiet, peaceful lives separate from the world. Most of their food comes from their own farms. The women sew and knit and weave their clothing, which is modest and plain. They are known as the Amish people. A 32-year-old milk truck driver lived with his family in their Nickel Mines community. He was not Amish, but his pickup route took him to many Amish dairy far...
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To the Victims of the Shooting
2008-02-15 22:46:00
My heart goes out to the victims of the shooting in Illinios yesterday. It seems these stories are increasing in frequency. These acts of violence are so sad, and it's hard for me to wrap my brain around why someone would do such a thing. It is also difficult for me to comprehend the heartbreaking pain that one must go through in such a situation. I pray for healing to take place among the victims of this terrible tradgedy, I pray for the hope of Christ to shine brightly in their minds and hearts during such a dark time.I'd like to share the words to this beautiful hymn as a tolken of my prayers in the behalf of all who are suffering from broken lives, bitter anquish, despair, grief and loss of hope. Whether they are victims of this tradgedy in Illinois, victims of abuse, disease, sickness, poverty or the awful chains of sin. I know that my Redeemer lives, I trust in His power to heal, to forgive, to help us stand firm amidst the storms of life. He is there for you too. He is real...
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Communication Habits
2008-02-14 22:34:00
Have you ever tried to talk with someone who is bitter, angry and full of complaints, or someone who constantly cuts you off before you could finish a thought, or while you were speaking they weren't listening but rather busy thinking of how to turn the conversation back to themselves or how to dump all their "wisdom" on you??? You've all experienced it . And it's not very enjoyable.Let's be honest: As we sit here and think of those annoying people.... we have to admit that we are all guilty of these things in some form or another too. Wouldn't you agree?I want so much to be a better friend, a better listener and to improve my communication habits, especially with my husband and kids. This is something I have been praying for alot lately.This morning I decided to study the Epistle of James, (one of my most favorite books). It is such a short but incredible part of the New Testament. I love it.As I was reading in James 1:19, this short little line of advice stood out to me so bo...
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Open Minded
2008-02-12 00:23:00
I am so thankful to have friends of all kinds of beliefs, religions and backgrounds. I am not so concerned about how different they are compared to me because they are all good people and they are my friends.I usually stay away from conversations of deep doctrinal differences unless they institute it. I don't like to be argumentative or contentious so there are many things we just agree to disagree about (without being disagreeable) ya know what I'm saying.I have gone to their meetings willingly and have enjoyed my visit. They share with me their books and movies and are good to share only those things that don't attack my religion. I am completely open to finding all the common ground we can.What saddens me is that sometimes I feel like it is so one-sided with my friends of other Christian faiths. I really don't feel threatened or offended for them to share some of their doctrine with me. They email me their monthly newsletter sent out by their pastor. I listen and appreciate w...
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The Nicene Creed
2008-02-10 03:19:00
This is a talk given by Elder Jeffrey R. Holland of the Quorum of the 12 Apostles in Oct 2007 in a world-wide broadcast to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. The talk is entitled, "The Only True God and Jesus Christ, Whom Thou Hast Sent.""As Elder Ballard noted earlier in this session, various crosscurrents of our times have brought increasing public attention to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The Lord told the ancients this latter-day work would be “a marvellous work and a wonder,”1 and it is. But even as we invite one and all to examine closely the marvel of it, there is one thing we would not like anyone to wonder about—that is whether or not we are “Christians.”By and large any controversy in this matter has swirled around two doctrinal issues—our view of the Godhead and our belief in the principle of continuing revelation leading to an open scriptural canon. In addressing this we do not need to be apologists for our faith, but we woul...
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My poor little boy.
2008-02-08 18:07:00
My youngest has the flu. Poor kid. I've been holding him in my arms for 3 hours this morning just trying to ease his discomfort. I laid him down in his bed and held him some more until he finally fell asleep. I feel so bad to see my children sick. I'm grateful it is nothing too serious. Moments like these give me greater admiration and compassion for those loving parents who have had to watch their child go through or even be taken by a life threatening illness. That would break my heart into a million pieces - it would truly tear me a part.

A Proclamation to the World
2008-02-06 22:01:00
In 1995, the First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles issued “The Family: A Proclamation to the World .” This proclamation is a declaration and reaffirmation of doctrines and practices that prophets have stated repeatedly throughout the history of the Church. It contains principles that are vital to the happiness and well-being of every family. Family members should study the proclamation and should live by its precepts.“We, the First Presidency and the Council of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, solemnly proclaim that marriage between a man and a woman is ordained of God and that the family is central to the Creator’s plan for the eternal destiny of His children.“All human beings—male and female—are created in the image of God. Each is a beloved spirit son or daughter of heavenly parents, and, as such, each has a divine nature and destiny. Gender is an essential characteristic of individual premortal, mortal, and ete...
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Please pray for our Country!
2008-02-06 18:24:00
Pray for our Country !!! Pray for good and righteous men and women to stand up for moral issues, for the family, for the importance of children deserving a mom and a dad, for the sanctity of childbearing and womanhood. Pray for the good people of this earth to rise up in defence of religious freedoms. Pray that we will not let down our guard. We cannot afford to support those who mock or strive to tear down the Ten Comandments. If we kick God out of this Country then we are "biting the Hand that feeds us," and we will crumble. This Nation was founded on God. We need Him. We are helpless without Him. Pray for our Country!!! Let's use our freedom to do all that we can to fight for all that is pure, honest, virtueous and good! We can't afford to just sit on the sidelines and do nothing.... I believe we will be held accountible for that.I've shared this observation about the fall of civilizations before and I'll share it again:"It's appalling that since the dawn of history no less t...
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Is it ok if I just vent today?!
2008-02-06 00:20:00
Shhhh. Let them sleep. They just need a nap, or a time-out... or they're hungry and tired and could use a nice long, warm bath.... but mostly they need a nap. I'm not talking about kids.... I'm talking about MOTHERS.Normally I like to share things that are inspiring and uplifting to others. Today I'm not so sure that I could call this post "inspiring."Today has been so overwhelmingly difficult with my kids and I am ready to explode. My kids are on year-round school and they have been off track for almost three weeks. Off track means no school... no school in the middle of the fridged winter with no money means my creative juices are all gone by the third week and I am drained!!!! Today they have done nothing but fight, scream, make messes, climb the walls and complain!!! They are driving me CRAZY! So, for their safety and my sanity, I have tucked myself in a little corner of the house and am wearing ear plugs.I'm using my blog to vent this time.... I know it's not very uplifti...
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Winter Fun
2008-02-05 05:48:00
My youngest has muscles!!! He actually pulled is older brother across the entire yard and he's half the size of his big brother. My husband, adding a little more speed to the sleds. He knows how to make things so much more fun for the kids... and he has the energy for it too. When he's home, I totally get to kick back. There's no contest, the kids would rather play with daddy any day. My youngest boy. He has so much personality. He's the most cuddly of all my kids....oooo.. I love it! These expressions are typical of my oldest. I think he has over 200 faces. He is such a clown. This is my beautiful daughter, she was sick and had to watch her brothers play outside from the window. She is so full of energy and knows how to make her brothers roll on the floor with laughter. Oh don't let that sweet little innocent smile fool ya... look a little closer... do you see the wild streak in her eyes?
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Funeral of President Hinckley
2008-02-03 01:32:00
I had the privilage of attending President Hinckley's funeral today. Words cannot adaquately express how I have been uplifted, inspired and encouraged to stand a little taller...to give my heart more completely to the Lord by watching the example of Gordon B. Hinckley. On the back of the funeral program was printed three quotes by this inspired man: these are beautiful words, filled with wisdom, peace and hope. I would like to share them with you:"We must never adopt a holier-than-thou attitude. We must not be self-righteous. We must be magnanimous and open and friendly. We can keep our faith. We can practice our religion. We can cherish our method of worship without being offensive to others. I take this occasion to plead for a spirit of tolerance and neighborliness, of friendship and love toward those of other faiths." - Gordon B. Hinckley, Ensign, May 2002"May the Spirit of our Lord accompany us and remain with us. We know not what lies ahead of us. We know not what the coming d...
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Four Tips for Family Finances
2008-02-01 22:10:00
Four things that will help you increadibly with your family finances: This information provided by providentliving.org Pay Tithes and OfferingsSuccessful family finances begin with the payment of an honest tithe and the giving of a generous fast offering. The Lord has promised to open the windows of heaven and pour out great blessings upon those who pay tithes and offerings faithfully (Malachi 3:10 and Isaiah 58: 6–12). TithingIf our tithing is the first obligation met, our commitment to this important gospel principle will be strengthened and the likelihood of financial mismanagement will be reduced. Fast OfferingsOn fast day, we go without food and drink for two consecutive meals, if physically able, and then give to the bishop a fast offering at least equal to the value of the food not eaten. If possible, we should be very generous and give more. The bishop uses the fast offerings to care for the poor and needy. Avoid DebtSpending less money than you make is essential to your f...
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"Did you think to pray?"
2008-01-30 16:44:00
I was studying the 6th Chapter of Luke yesterday, verses 1-12: The scribes and pharisees were so self-righteous that instead of trying to come to know Jesus, to really listen to His teachings and soften their hearts, they were consumed with finding fault and seeking to find accusation against Christ. It is on the Sabbath day and Jesus has healed a man with a withered hand. Instead of rejoicing in this and acknowledging His power they find fault and question in their hearts why Christ is healing someone on the Sabbath.Jesus, knowing their thoughts, turns to them and asks, "Is it lawful on the sabbath days to do good, or to do evil? To save life, or to destroy it?" Then Jesus tells the man He just healed to show his hand to the scribes and pharisees... did they now understand who Jesus was? Were their hearts softened by His power....they just witnessed a great miracle! Now would they follow Him? NO! In fact, the scripture says they were furious, "they were filled with madness" and the...
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So Blessed
2008-01-29 21:39:00
Do you ever have those moments when you wake up with your heart so full of gratitude you feel like you're about to burst? I feel so increadibly blessed to have the hope, the mercy, the grace, the comfort and the perspective that comes from the Gospel of Jesus Christ that I can't keep it to myself, I just can't! I wish I could tell it to the whole world. I know it's not possible for me to reach every single person but I am thankful I can use this little tool I have, called a 'blog', to help me share this good news in my own small way. I feel so blessed!!!
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I will miss President Gordon B. Hinckley.
2008-01-28 22:03:00
Last night I heard the news that the man whom I revere as a Prophet of God died at age 97. President Gordon B. Hinckley has been the President of my Church for the past 13 years and prior to that served for 14 years in the First Presidency. My church is a non-paid ministry... no person, male or female is paid any money for their church services and callings. President Hinckley served for more than 77 years in this church and did not receive one penny for it. I just think that is so cool... it inspires me. Of course, this is just one example of the many things that inspires me about him. Oh, how I will miss him. Words cannot express the love, respect and admiration I have for that man. He has made such a positive and profound impact on my life. I am so thankful for his leadership, his words of wisdom, his humor, his optimism, his guidance and counsel.... most especially, I am thankful for President Huntley's, humility, his deep love and devotion to Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ a...
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Faith of a Child
2008-01-26 23:30:00
My oldest boy has been learning to pray on his own. These are some cute experiences I have had with him concerning prayer:I couldn't find my keys to the car and we all had an appointment we were late for. I looked everywhere and was begining to lose my patience too... I went outside to buckle my kids in thier seats anyway. I got my younger two strapped in and called to my oldest to hurry. I walked back in the house, frustrated, because now I not only had to find my keys but I had to find my son as well. Impatiently, I searched for my keys while telling my oldest to hurry. Then I saw him... he was kneeling down by the couch and stood up with a big smile on his face... excitedly he said, "Mommy, I know right where your keys are. I said a prayer and now I know. I asked Heavenly Father to help me and He did." Then he ran straight to where my keys were and handed them proudly to me. "See I knew Heavenly Father would help me. I knew it." It was humbling for me.My son loves to...
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The Power of Music
2008-01-24 20:19:00
I hope this works. I've been trying to get some music added to my blog. I love music that inspires me to live a better life, that inspires me to love more to give more and become more. Below is a quote I found that I thought would be good to share."Through music, man's ability to express himself extends beyond the limits of the spoken language in both subtlety and power. Music can be used to exalt and inspire or to carry messages of degradation and destruction. It is therefore important that...we at all times apply the principles of the Gospel and seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit in selecting the music with which we surround ourselves." - A message from the First Presidency, Ensign, January 1974
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A Few More Pictures
2008-01-23 03:49:00
My cute little daughter. Everything is fun for her!My three greatest joys! Oh, how I love these guys.My good-looking husband on his way to work. He can't stand being away from the kids... but I'm glad he works hard so I can be home. He's great!
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Fun Family Pictures
2008-01-23 03:44:00
Me and my kids at a train expo. My boys love trains. We are riding on one that requires a very tiny bottom... uh... mine was a little sore after this.Ahhh the joys of parenting. This little guy discovered the sun block. I just laughed... it was way too cute not to.Our little adventure that caused a bit of grief for us all. But we made it through. Didn't lose anything too important, we were happy for that. It could have been worse!Me and the kids on the train at the Zoo. My husband took this picture, that's why he's not in it. We all had a great time. It was a perfect day.My oldest pretending to fly a helicopter at the childrens museum. Isn't he so adorable.... of course arn't all my children adorable! I like to brag. I'm the mom I have those rights! So there. :)
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