Butterfly House

A new butterfly house opened up recently in Dallas and the kids and I went there last week. It was so quiet and peaceful and we walked around with a woman who worked there. Esther just took her hand and the lady told her all about the flowers and butterflies. Both of the children were fascinated by all the fluttering and flying. Suddenly, the peace was ripped to shreds by the arrival of dozens of middle schoolers, running down the paths and swatting at the butterflies with their clipboards, their chaperones trying unsuccessfully to corral them into a corner. Yikes! Nevertheless, we still enjoyed our visit.

Sunday Best

Nathan has just recently started wearing a tie to church. I adore him in a tie. Here are some slightly blurry shots from a photo shoot that Daron did with the kids right after church on Sunday. It's hard to get these two to hold still!

My Underwear is Where?

Esther came out of her room awhile back looking like this. What a goose!

Sisters

Last Saturday I performed in a small skit that some friends and I put together. It was part of our ward's annual Blitz (a day of crafts, hanging out with friends, warm soups, and yummy salads). If you know the movie White Christmas then you'll recognize this song - or perhaps you won't!



Lyrics:

Sisters, sisters,
There were never such devoted sisters.
Reading, praying, serving hands are all around
where any Irving-ite can be found.

Caring, sharing
every little thing that we are wearing.
Even when a baby bump appears on scene
Three to nine months – and in between!

All kinds of weather, we stick together,
the same in the rain or sun.
So many faces, but in tight places
we think and we act as one. Uh-huh!

After meetings
a hallway full of talking and of greetings
Husbands all have tried to split us up, but no one can.
Oh, bless the mister who patiently waits for his sister
and oh, bless the sister who patiently waits for her man!

All kinds of weather, we stick together,
the same in the rain or sun.
So many faces, but in tight places
we think and we act as one. Uh-huh!

Sisters’ meetings
never are complete without some eating.
Whether it’s Enrichment night or not, it’s all the same.
Casseroles, chocolate – just tryin’ to follow the Prophet
Go visit your sister. We know she’ll be glad that you came!

Sisters!
Sisters!
We’re glad that you came!

Stuck

Nathan is enjoying playing under the table and frequently gets himself into funny positions. The funniest part was that he was whining because he was stuck, but as soon as I brought the camera over, he started saying "Chee" and smiling for the picture. As soon as I put the camera away, he was back to whining.

Chocoholic?

Esther, upon being asked what flavor ice cream she wanted:

"Chocolate. Because chocolate matches me."

Little Dancer

Esther has been begging for dance classes for some time now and we finally found a class that fit. Having taken ballet for years growing up, I have also been excited to introduce my daughter to such a fun and beautiful art form. Today was her first class. The first half of the class they do tap and the second half they do ballet. Unfortunately, there is thick glass between the students and parents. Totally understandable, but it makes it rather hard to get any good shots. Besides, I was so emotional watching my little girl that I forgot to take any pictures until right at the end. She is growing up so quickly. And I love moments like this where I can see her on her own, making new friends, and learning new talents. And I can just sit back and enjoy it.