Scott's Send Off

Scott's National Guard Unit is being deployed for one year to Afghanistan. We have had heavy hearts preparing for him to leave, but are trying to be optimistic and positive about the impact it will have on our little family. I am so proud of Scott and his love for our country and his desire to serve in whatever capacity he can. He is a true example of patriotism in action. We had a little send-off party for Scott the day before he left. Our house was packed with friends and family and we were overwhelmed by everyone's love and support. Thank you all for your love and concern. It won't be easy for Scott to be away nor for Deacon and I to be without him, but I know with your support and our Heavenly Father's guidance we can do hard things!

Some of Scott's siblings: Preston, Julie, Scott, Katie, Logan, Cari, and Chante:

Another family shot: Preston, Logan, Katie, Scott, Maritza, Julie and Chante:

Haylee and Todd's family with us:

Maritza and Scott:

Scott, Vern, and Preston

Scott, Vern, and Michelle

Scott's best friends from Lehi High School: Stephanie and Kathy:

Todd (with Krue) and Logan

Chante, Katie, and Anna:

Cari, Jocelyn, Steevi, Julie, and Jessi:

The next day we all gathered at the hanger of airport two to send off our brave soldiers. Emotions were high as we said goodbye.

The National Anthem takes on a whole new meaning now when I hear it:

I am so thankful for the support of my amazing parents-  I couldn't do this without them:

Three brothers: Logan, Scott, and Preston:

Julie and Scott:

Scott's youngest sister Jessica:

The weather was terrible that day and we weren't sure if Scott's dad was going to make it in time from Logan. He made it just in time and I know it meant a lot to Scott to have him there:

Julie and Katie:

Some of our little group- Jessi, Jessica, Katie and Nixxon, Travis, and my dad:

More of the group- Chante and Beau

Moment's before he left:

Last hugs:

Deacon will miss his Daddy, but what a great example he is setting for our son. We love you Scott:

Chuck E Cheese

Deacon has been begging to go to Chuck E Cheese for months. We finally took him for our last Family Home Evening before Scott left. The pizza was mediocre, the salad bar was gross, but Deacon's smile was priceless! He had a ball! I think Scott had just as much fun playing the arcade games as Deacon. I wish I had a picture of him too!

Deacon riding  the monster truck:

Laughing his head off:

Getting a little worried it's going to tip over:

This one was definitely a hit:

I'm sure we'll be back inspite of the food. This smile made it all worth it:

Learning and Growing TOO Fast!

Deacon has been loving his first year of preschool and I can't believe how much he has been learning! He loves singing me songs and telling me the sounds the letters make. Scott and I were both blown away when we drove by an American flag and Deacon started reciting the Pledge of Allegiance word for word! I have a video of him doing it posted below. It is so cute, so check it out! He is such a sweet little boy. We love watching him learn and grow, but it makes us a little sad to see it happening so quickly! Usually he is just making us all laugh with his silly sense of humor.

Here he is in his 2011-2012 school picture:

 Here he is all decked out for the wedding of Q and U:

Some of his favorite days so far this year have been "Teddy Bear Day" when he got to take his favorite bear- Papa Bear, Pajama Day, and Thanksgiving Feast Day when he got to bring his favorite food to share with everyone- spaghetti.

And last, but not least the Pledge of Allegiance