Cousin Time

Jared and Jodi's family came into town for Kassidi's Homecoming and Thanksgiving. We didn't have a lot of time to spend with them this trip due to the kids still being in school and we were leaving out of town for Thanksgiving to spend with the Hafens. We decided on Monday night to take all the kids to a trampoline park which was great for them to get their energy out. They played dodgeball while Grandma Pikus and I got the chance to watch sweet Tanner. They all begged for a sleepover that night, so we let them since it would be their last night to see them for a while. We heard great news this week, they have decided to move back to Utah!! They are thinking this summer, we couldn't be more excited for more cousin time!!

Welcome Home Sista Smooty!!!

18 months flew by as we awaited Kassidi's Homecoming. When she left, I thought how much would happen before her return. I knew Jayden would be getting ready to submit his papers when she returned and here we are talking about Jayden's mission next year. The younger kids came along to welcome her home at the airport. Jayden had a math test unfortunately. It was a great welcome. We then headed up to Perry the next day to help set up tables, chairs and decorations for the homecoming at the church. She really grew in Boston and she has such a strong testimony. We are excited she is home again and grateful for her example to all of us!

New Beginnings

Our New Beginnings theme this year was focus on your "Innergrams" (inner selves rather than our outer selves). We have 8 new Young Women joining us next year on top of the 63 we already have. There are many girls which is sometimes hard to keep up with, but each one is well worth the work and efforts our presidency puts into our Ward Young Women's program. I have been in Young Women's now for over 4 years and have loved every minute. There are a lot of highs and a few lows when you know one of the girls are struggling. I've been grateful for the growth the calling has allowed for me and the great relationships I have made.

NOVEMBER

October - Miscellaneous

Conference Weekend with Shauna, Grandma & Grandpa and a couple of Kassidi's misson companions. It was breakfast casserole and a waffle bar for breakfast and then we were able to listen to some great messages from our church leaders.

Aysia went to her Junior High dance with a few of her friends. They all ordered m&m shirts, we made Aysia's out of felt and an old pink t-shirt.

Skyler was asked to go to the Sadie Hawkins dance by a friend. He wasn't sure what to do, but after reading a few talks he decided to take a rain check until he was 16. I guess that is the downfall of a summer birthday, having to wait an entire year to date. He still has a great time hanging out with friends in large groups.

Skyler has enjoyed playing goalie once again after a season of playing outfield. He definitely has a talent for it and loves it.

Jayden's final club soccer season before graduating. He made it on a D-1 team which finished 3rd in their division.