A Special Bell Tower FHE

I feel so lucky to know two people who play and write music for the carillon bells at BYU. This summer, I met Brigham on campus to grab some stuff from his car. While there, he pointed out that someone was playing Bridger's arrangement of Feed the Birds from Mary Poppins.

A few weeks later, I asked Bridger if my kids could get a special inside look at the bells. He was happy to oblige and we invited Brigham, other cousins and Mamie and Papa to make it a special FHE.

The kids tried playing the practice "keyboard" on the bottom floor. It's the same replica as the upper floor. It's literally a bunch of pegs you have to hit with your fists and feet that are connected to the bells.

I let Travis take the older kids up while I stayed below with the younger two. The climb up the small, winding staircase is not for the faint of heart!

I had to include a couple songs Bridger arranged for the bells.

He later switched me out and I actually got to play a few notes for all BYU campus to hear. :)

We all went out for ice cream cones after. I'm so glad we got this unique experience!

 

Ivy Turns 4

 Ivy turned 4! It seemed like she'd be 3 forever! She was so excited to finally be 4.

She was also excited to share birthday treats with her preschool class that afternoon. And that evening we celebrated with cake and ice cream, and the trick candles made a reappearance. ;) I will forever cherish her sweet, high pitched voice, asking me so many questions throughout the day. We love you, Ivy!

Jaxon Turns 12

Jaxon has grown in so many ways over the past year. He is so talented and a big help to me around the house. Out of all the kids, he's probably the sweetest with the younger kids. He's definitely their favorite.

We thought we'd get him the trick candles. Oh my goodness. He thought they were the most hilarious things ever. Although it tugs my heart strings a bit, I can't wait to see what's in store for this big boy. We love you Jaxon!

The School Year Begins!

 Welcome to the 2023-2024 school year!

We have Jaxon in 6th (last year of elementary! I usually have them hold up their favorite book, but he's definitely not a book kid, so he's holding up his fidget toy just to be silly)

Violet in 4th...

And Ginger in 1st grade. She is so excited to begin Chinese immersion. She's been looking forward to this day for at least 2 years. It's going great!

And believe it or not, this little girl started preschool. She's definitely the youngest, and cutest preschooler out there. Made the deadline by 2 days!

Of course, this little guy didn't want to be left out and demanded he have a photo too.

I am so grateful for the wonderful schools my kids go to and their dedicated teachers.

Last Days of Summer

 We've had a great summer. 

Violet got her second ever haircut.

Enjoyed a huge indoor playground at Provo Beach Resort. It was a great, cool way to burn off energy!

We came home and had ice cream cones.

This is what I want their summers to be. Just kickin back, enjoying ice cream on our front swing together. 

Violet and Laykin put on a terrific magic show.

More time at the local splash pad.

Talmage discovered he loves salsa.

Pillow fight on the tramp!

One last night at the pool.

Ivy discovered she loves the indoor water slides! She goes over and over and over...

And to wrap it up, we had one last outing with cousins. Playdates with cousins is one of their favorite parts of summer vacation. They always look forward to it.

All in all, we had a fantastic summer. I wouldn't change it for anything.