Washington DC Temple

I have never thought the DC Temple was particularly pretty in pictures I've seen. I can say it's one of the more exquisite temples I've been to. It shines in the sunlight, and radiates a distinct power. Very glad we were able to visit it a few times while on our adventure.

I cannot talk about going to DC without speaking of our dear love for Doug and Sandy Banks. They have welcomed us into their home on several occasions now, on even a few hours notice. They treat us like family; which I am certain they do to all who enter into it (which doesn't make you feel any less special-just grateful you have them in your life). Their examples of service, love of the gospel, acceptance of all, generosity, family life, and adventure have inspired our family. We have had wonderful spiritual talks, jokes shared, lessons in cooking, football games on tv, playing the chimes in the living room, watching The Christmas Story as Sandy laughs just as much as any kid does, and just simple moments of life. We have gained two wonderful people into our family.

 

When we arrived at the temple the workers were planting the bulbs for Spring. They let Raiyah and Malakai plant several bulbs each. The kids were so excited, and the workers were so nice. It was a fun moment to teach the kids about serving and making the Lord's house a beautiful place.

I truly know that because of the sealing ordinace in the temple I will be with my beautiful family forever. This life is so wonderful, I am so thankful to have my incredible husband, and children to share it with.

Berkeley Plantation

Halloween

I would be remiss if I didn't take a moment and talk about our friends in Norfolk. We planned on doing our travels, and really just focusing on service and our family; which I think we've done more than ever before. But we didn't anticipate the friendships we would make. From Lindsi and Phillip Whiting letting us sleepover at their house the first night we got there, even though we had never met. Or Chris Bennion, and Kenny Larsen looking for houses for us while we were still driving out from Utah. To teaching violin to Jinny Kim, and Elise Peterson. Going to Yoga with Laurel Christensen, and talking about teaching and music. Being instant friends Jenny and being able to talk about anything. I truly cannot believe the great memories I will always hold of my friends in Norfolk. We had so much fun at bookclub, parties, the beach, and dinners. I love all of them dearly.

 Ryan really enjoyed hangin out with the guys in our ward as well. They were all great friends.

We went trick or treating in down town Norfolk with Whitings, Bennions, and Larsens. I haven't seen that many kids out since I was a little kids getting candy. It was a magical warm night. Lot's of fun.

Malaka and Sammy

Raiyah, Becham Larsen, and Addison Whiting

Malaka and Porter Whiting at the ward Halloween party. There were lots of fun games, a parade, treats, and trunk or treating. Everyone thought Malakai's costume was absolutely the best fireman they had ever seen. I have to agree. It looks pretty real.

John, Chris, and Sammy Bennion. Chris made these costumes. She is so amazing with anything artistic.

Ji and Jinny Kim. What can I say about them. :) I love them dearly. Ryan said that we could be twins if I wasn't from America, and Jinny from Korea. Along with the New Zealand accent, and my Utah accent. But we got along perfectly, and I hope to for many years to come.

Me and Lindsi Whting. Yes, she is very pretty, yes it's a costume. You will notice she will never just pose nicely for a picture; which is her personality. We had some great times with the kids and us wandering Virginia.

October Festivities

October was a lot of fun in Virginia. We couldn't even go to everything there were so many activities going on. We went to the Fall Festival at the Library (face painting, chalk, Clifford, pumpkins), Ocean View Park (a band, and lots of running around), and First Landing State Park with wagon rides, blow up houses, pumpins, and hanging out with good friends. The Larsen's have become some of our best friends in Viriginia. Kenny, Jenny, Becham, and Kenyan are so fun and great to hang out with. We've also loved getting to know Molli and Larry Yarn. They have two kids and I cannot believe I can't think of their names right now. We've been really blessed with such great people to meet here.

Look at that concentration. What wonderful artists I have.

I had to take this picture because it is our life with Malakai. He has yet to be badly hurt, which is quite a miracle. But Ryan has taught me that Malakai is a boy and usually can take care of himself. So I usually just sit back as he goes a little nuts climbing things, and just having fun. This happens atleast once everytime we go out. A concerned Mom jumps to catch him in anticipation of his fall, and looks at me like 'I can't believe you aren't catching him.' But again, he is still in one piece and has yet to get really hurt. Until then I will let him just be a boy, which I absolutely love him for.

I somehow get taken by surprise when I walk by things like this, still. Ryan has always been a romantic so I think I take it for granted. I am so lucky to have such a thoughtful sweet man who makes my heart beat a little faster each time I see him. I love you hun. It's all the little things you do for me in life that makes our life so wonderful.

Sandsculpting at Virginia Beach

The sandsculpting contest at Virginia Beach was incredible. The children's eyes widened as they saw these giant sculptures, and realized it was made from the sand they played on. We all were inspired.

 Kenyan and Becham Larsen came with us to the beach while their parents went on a date night. These boys are always awesome and fun to have around. Raiyah even admits she likes playing with them, even if they are boys.