Aliza Turns 5

We did a lot of celebrating over the last week for Aliza's birthday. It started early when two of Micah's siblings were in town and came over for dinner the Sunday before her birthday. We decided to celebrate with them a little early, and let her blow the candles out on a cake. She was able to open their presents while they were here, and it worked out perfect for her to have a few new things to play with before her actual b-day the following Wednesday.

She really wanted to get her ears pierced this year for her birthday. I was kind of at a loss trying to figure out what to get her this year, so it worked out perfect.

I did warn her that it would hurt, but she was still shocked when they actually put the earrings in her ear. She held really still with a really shocked look on her face, and when they backed away to tell her she was done she just started sobbing. She wouldn't even look in the mirror to see them in her ears. She was sad for just a few minutes, and then was happy again.

She chose these cute little flowers with multi-colored peddles. They are super cute on her.

We walked around the mall for awhile afterward, visited with the Easter Bunny, and watched these singing bears. She was happy as could be just being in the mall. That's my girl. :)

It was fun to have Abbie and Avery with us to help Aliza feel excited about her new earrings.

That night for dinner she requested pancakes, bacon, and a berry pie instead of cake for dessert. She was so excited to use the Birthday plate.

It turned out too pretty to eat.

We were able to talk to all her grandparents and open lots of fun things sent for her. When I drive Aliza and her friend Violet to preschool they have such funny conversations in the back seat. I just love listening to them. Lately, they have been talking about how they are going to be rock stars together. Rock stars that dress fashionable and modest. I decided this microphone would be perfect for them to play with. Aliza loves it.

Happy Birthday to our beautiful Aliza. We are so lucky to have her in our home. I don't know what we would ever do without her here to make us laugh. I love her to pieces!!!

It's Raining It's Pouring

St. Patrick's day this year was full of green food and green clothes as usual. What was unusual is that it actually rained here in Henderson. What I mean by rain is not the typical drizzle that we get every once in awhile that is just enough to make your car a mess. It was an actual rain storm. The kids couldn't resist wanting to run and play in the rain, and I let them.

Avery mentioned afterward that it was the best St. Patrick day ever. I'm glad she thought so. After playing in the rain for quite some time we were able to attend our ward Chili Cook Off . I'm proud to announce that Micah won the pie eating contest. I think that shocked all of us, and I really wish I had my camera with me to take pictures. He was a really good sport.

Junior Festival

Avery participated in Nevada's Federation yesterday, and did a fantastic job. This was a shot of her group who performed together, and they all coincidentally have the same teacher. They ended up grouped together because they all used the same accompanist.

Right before they started she leaned over to me and whispered "I just really hope I'm not the first one." The judges then stood up and announce the order of performers, and first on the list was Avery Phillips. She was really disappointed until I pointed out that she will be done first and be able to relax. She got up there like a pro, did everything wonderfully, and got a Superior rating which is the best you can get. She is really excited for next year because if she gets one more superior she will have enough points to receive a trophy.

We surprised her with flowers when she got home, and this is her certificate below. I'm really proud of her, and all of her hard work. She is amazing!

Fire Station Field Trip

Aliza was able to visit the Henderson Fire Station last week for her Preschool field trip. It was fun even for me to visit the station and see how the firemen live.

The station was really nice, and the firemen were so wonderful with the kids. Aliza has been saying now that she would like to be a fire fighter when she grows up, which I'm sure most the class went home saying. Who wouldn't want to be when they make it look so fun?!

Here they are watching the firefighter put on his protective gear. Making sure that they knew that it was a nice guy on the inside, and to never be scared. Loved that!

They were so nice to let them climb through the fire truck. The best part was that they were able to see an ambulance drive off with it's sirens on. Not a good part because someone needed help, but the kids thought it was fantastic.

Las Vegas Temple

Last Sunday we decided to enjoy the beautiful Spring weather by visiting the Las Vegas temple. Avery had a rehearsal in downtown LV, so we made the best of a trip across town and went to the temple. As I mentioned before the weather is absolutely beautiful right now. It was the perfect day to walk around the temple grounds.

Aliza fell asleep on the drive there, but woke up ready to run around and see the water fountains. There is always such a peaceful and wonderful feeling near the temple. I love that you can go there anytime and really escape from the world and feel at peace.

The grass is always so green and luscious at the temple. The flowers and trees are all so beautiful. I didn't want to leave.

You can't have water around and not expect kids to stick their fingers in. Right?

This picture above was taken by Aliza after she woke up. It was crazy sitting in this spot and looking out over the city. I could be at this beautiful temple, and in the distance was the Las Vegas Strip. Talk about two extreme opposites.

I'm starting to absolutely love this temple as our temple. Micah and I were able to attend ward temple night last night, and it was wonderful. We have a wonderful ward, and I feel so thankful for all the wonderful people we are able to be around here in Nevada. We are very blessed!