Never Surrender

(Jessica and her sweet friend, Sydney)

And to all who suffer—to all who feel discouraged, worried, or lonely—I say with love and deep concern for you, never give in. Never surrender.  Never allow despair to overcome your spirit.  Embrace and rely upon the Hope of Israel, for the love of the Son of God pierces all darkness, softens all sorrow, and gladdens every heart.

Dieter F. Uchtdorf, The Infinite Power of Hope, Nov. 2008

Flashback Friday: Jessie Turns 11

It seems only fitting that since today is the eve of Jessica's 16th birthday that we celebrate Flashback Friday with one of her old birthday pictures.  Jess' 11th birthday was a favorite.  We spent the day with our family at Jack Carter pool.  Simple yet fun!  I miss all those swimming parties we had for Jessie.  Oh, the ease of having a summer birthday. 

We are looking forward to celebrating our favorite girl tomorrow!

Secrets

I wonder what they are talking about.

Perfect Blendship

It's friendship, friendship,
Just a perfect blendship,
When other friendships have been forgot
Ours will still be hot!

Lifelong friends: Jonathan, Katy, Laura, Jessica, Madison and Ally.

Young Women

We are daughters of our Heavenly Father,

who loves us and we love Him

We will stand as a witness of God at all times

and in all things and in all places

as we strive to live the Young Women values, which are

Faith - Divine Nature- Individual Worth -

Knowledge - Choice and Accountability -

Good Works - Integrity and Virtue

We believe as we come to accept and act

upon these values, We will be prepared

to strengthen home and family,

make and keep sacred covenants, receive

the ordinances of the temple, and enjoy

the blessings of the of exaltation.

Love and War

Our wedding anniversary is July 29th, so we celebrated on Saturday (the 28th).  We decided to check out the live music at Love and War in Texas.  I was nervous, because Fred is not a huge country music fan.  I knew one of the acts - Dale Watson - is very country.  I was concerned that Fred might get up and leave early on.  He was a trooper and stuck it out.  We sat outside on a super hot night to listen to the music.  Smoking was allowed and the seating was uncomfortable.  So, if you know me, you know that this was recipe for a migraine.  (I had also worked out and taken Jonathan to the pool, so I had already over-heated and stressed my sensitive little brain out). 

I really enjoyed it and would have had even more fun with another couple.  I really wish Fred and our friends enjoyed country music, because it would be fun to do often.  The first act was Saille Branch. I was not familiar with him.  He is a local act.  Fred said that he is a cross between Hank Jr. and Johnny Cash.

Dale Watson was awesome, but he was the most ridiculous thing I have ever seen.  He was very country and is based out of Austin.  I think Fred liked Saille Branch's music better, but Dale Watson was very funny (thankfully, that kept Fred entertained).  It was a great night (not counting the migraine) with great entertainment and great people watching.  Maybe I can talk Fred into doing this again!

Flashback Friday: Hanging Ten at Port Aransas

August 6, 2008

Port Aransas, Texas

In 2008, we took the kids to Port Aransas.  We had so much fun and have always talked about going back.  I hope that we can work that in the schedule again, soon.