The Nielsons

Thursday, December 8, 2016

FHE Turkeys

We made our thankful turkeys for FHE to remind us of our lesson on gratitude. We also combined a lesson about the first Thanksgiving. Luke helped fill in the gaps in my memory. History was never my strong point! :)

Myles made his own playdoh version of a turkey.

Primary Program

I found the brightest place I could find and made them smile right into the sun for a picture to document this day. I love the primary program. This year, as I played, I was able to see both my kids in the program (Luke was strategically placed right next to me by the presidency to help encourage good behavior I'm sure). I love playing the piano in primary. I can still remember the songs from when I was in primary. There is power that comes from good music.

Dentist

When it comes to the thought of taking my three kids to the dentist at the same time, I feel like it could be considered a form of torture. I decided to try out a new pediatric dentist, Dr. Purvi Shah (I actually worked with her many years ago at the Children's Hospital in the procedure center). She was incredible with my kids and her staff was great, as well. I'm not getting a discount or anything for writing this :), she was simply that good and I really appreciated it. Luke and Emma keep asking to go back to the dentist---how about in 6 months???

Friday, November 11, 2016

Home At Last! Home At Last!

My parents made it home from their mission in Japan. I know that my family was directly blessed because of their service. I will forever be grateful for their example. Some days it felt like time was flying, other days---it felt like 18 years! They were missed and I was so happy to see them (via FaceTime) coming down the escalators in the Salt Lake City airport. My favorite part was watching my mom run down the last few steps to hug those grandkids. She's been waiting a long time for those hugs!

I was tracking their flight from Tokyo to Seattle and then the final leg from Seattle to Salt Lake City. I learned later, that several of my brothers were doing the exact same thing. I may have played Neil Diamond's, "They're coming to America!!! Today!!" a few times in celebration of the big day.

Pictures are grainy, but I was so happy to see them, even via FaceTime!

When each of my brothers returned home from their missions, my dad would fly the flag from where they served. Tom, carried on this tradition and flew the Japan flag for my parents' welcome home. It was interesting on the texting thread with my brothers to hear the emotions they felt when seeing the American flag after serving their missions. I pray that our country will come together and realize the blessings of living underneath our flag of the United States of America. That's as political as I will get-especially when I'm celebrating my parents coming home after 18 months!

Welcome home mom and dad, grandpa and grandma! We love you and have missed you!

Girl Time

My friend, Krista, flew in from Florida for a visit with all of her friends in Castle Rock. I was the lucky one this time, and she was able to stay with me. Krista's oldest son is only 5 days apart from Luke. That was our first connection when I set up a playdate with those two babies), over 5 years ago! We became close friends before they moved and have kept that friendship intact, despite the distance! We had such a fun time of eating out (Cafe Rio, Kneaders, Hacienda Colorado), shopping, pedicures, and late night visits. Love this girl and all of the incredible friendships I'm blessed with.

HALLOWEEN!

We joined with the Cramers for our trick-or-treating on Halloween night. Myles was quick to catch on to the free candy. He wasted no time trying to keep up with the big kids. I was glad his costume was reflective and easier to spot!

Emma had a costume change from the waitress to the witch.

There were some pretty spooky houses. The boys, in all of their chivalry, would let Emma lead the way to make sure it was safe. She was definitely the bravest one in this crew!