Easter 2013

Let's back up a bit and talk about Easter.  

For Easter this year, we were in Vegas relaxing with Dan's family.

(It was just the recharge this mom needed.)  

And the Easter Bunny didn't disappoint.  He knew exactly where we were and brought just the right things.

Specifically, princess sticker earrings for Alayna.  You better believe that she has worn a pair daily since then. 

 

I mean, look at that expression.  She was thrilled, to say the least.

Brylen even got a few things she wanted/needed.  Apparently she like the new sippy cups considering the hug she gave them.

Once they checked out their baskets, it was time to hunt for eggs around the hotel room.  Here she's showing off what was inside most of her eggs.  Can you tell what it is?  Let's just say her piggy bank is a bit heavier after that Easter egg hunt.

Overall, Easter was perfect this year.  We attended a wonderful Sacrament meeting in Vegas, had a yummy Easter feast, spent time with family, and enjoyed warm weather.  What more can a girl ask for?

Birthday party

This sweet baby is one.  Yes.  ONE!  

Time definitely flies when you are having fun...and have two kids.

Isn't she so cute snuggling with her puppy?

We had a little party at our house (in between general conference sessions) and this guest insisted on wearing her hat.  She was the only one that wanted to.  She'll wear her hat, but she won't look at the camera.

Brylen started off the party with a little stroll.  She doesn't have the walking thing down yet, but that's ok.  She can take her time.

Now, on to the food.  Pizza!  What kid doesn't love pizza?  Look at her eyeing that slice.

After lunch, the birthday girl got to open presents.  Despite what this picture suggests, there was actually a very "helpful" four-year-old that initiated most of the unwrapping of presents.

I think she's pretty excited about her Mr. Potatohead. 

Didn't take her long to get the hang of things.  And she seems to be pretty proud of herself.

There's that four-year-old helper.

Brylen had to try out her new toy from Grandma and Grandpa L.

And she had to give her new stuffed dog a squeeze.  (This girl LOVES stuffed animals.)

After the toys were sufficiently played with, it was time for cake.  Here's Brylen's very own cake

Mom thought it would be a perfect time for Brylen to wear her cute hate.  Brylen obviously didn't think it was a good time and she promptly pulled the hat off.  This is the only documentation that the hat even existed.

The flame is so enticing that Grandma S. had to step in.

Once the candle was blown out, Brylen grabbed the cake, but just kept pulling it apart.  She didn't seem to understand that she could eat it.  

First, she looked to Grandma for instructions on what to do.

Then to Alayna.

She just didn't want to eat her cake until Grandma gave her a spoon.  

She tried it out.

And then she went to town.

I think it is safe to say, she liked it!

What was left of her cake.  I finally had to intervene and proclaim a job well done.  Otherwise, I think she would have eaten the entire cake.

The adults enjoyed some cake as well.  But I also tried my had at Oreo truffles.  

They were a hit with adults and kids alike.

Happy Birthday, Brylen!  We love you!!!

11 months

I better hurry and talk about this baby at 11 months because now she is a YEAR!  Yikes!  But first thing's first.

At 11 months we have a stair climber on our hands.

Look how cute she is.  She even stops and smiles at the camera.

But then big sister gets a little jealous and needs her picture taken.

Her new favorite place to play now is the landing on the stairs.  

Not only can she climb stairs, but she is standing up along furniture....and shopping carts.  I think walking is around the corner.  Hopefully not too soon though.

She's also pretty good at making messes and being mischievous. Apparently she thought she could hang out in the entertainment center with all the movies.  She didn't count on getting stuck though.

While she is incredibly sweet and such a joy,  (I mean look at that face.)

(And those eyelashes.)

She has a stubborn streak and likes to do things on her own.  She HAD to comb her hair by herself after her bath.  But we love her anyway!

This cute little face has also learned how to give kisses.  It is so sweet AND slobbery!

But she did not escape this month with out getting sick.  Poor girl had the stomach flu for almost a week.  I tell ya, she just can't seem to stay healthy for long.  Fingers crossed that the warmer weather will change that.

We sure do LOVE our Brylen!