I can't believe he's 38!

That sure is a bunch of candles! We were surprised the smoke alarm didn't go off! We hope you get your wish-We love you!

Little Anah

Christmas with Grandma

Grandma was smart this year and found a way to avoid climbing her tall ladder. She invited all the grandkids over to help decorate the tree and then treated them to homemade sugar cookies. She was also brave not knowing if sprinkles would end up all over the kitchen floor. The mess wasn't bad and the kids had a blast. Thanks for your patience and making memories, Mom.

It's Turkey Time

Thanksgiving was full of fun! I started the day with a quick run knowing I would be having some yummy pumpkin pie and the boys played football in the annual Ocotillo Ward Turkey Bowl. No injuries this year thank goodness. Lara's family was nice enough to let us tag along for their dinner and the best part of the day was riding in the go-carts.

Yes, our boys love to speed!

Adam was left behind, poor baby.

I get to see this face everyday when he doesn't get his way.

The Beckstead Boys are always ready for a little competition!

An Early Christmas

Yes, you see correctly. Christmas went by way too fast for me last year and I've been itching to see Christmas lights. Joel was home Sunday night and I put him to work. We didn't put as many lights on the tree this year because we didn't have a lot of time but I think it looks perfect enough. This horse ornament was giving to my mother when I was born. I love it and whenever I see it I remember I used to be small once.

Morgan was the only one who lasted long enough to hang most of the ornaments. The boys lasted a couple of minutes and then went back to playing football in the living room.

Morgan sure loves this guy!

You're never too old to play dress-up! Seth is doing a poor job while he tries to hide from the camera. These nativity clothes are always a favorite at our house. He would die if any of his friends saw this picture.

I Love to See the Temple

We are so excited for the Gilbert Temple to be built! What a fun experience to be part of the groundbreaking. Morgan and Adam joined the masses and even turned some dirt. We are so grateful for the temple and all the many blessings we receive from going there. It will be so wonderful to have a temple close to us.

It was a busy, busy week for us. Here are some highlights:

• Flag Football
• All three kids are learning to play tennis
• Day off with Dad on Veteran's Day
• The Mortensen sealing
• Connie's wedding (Joel actually conducted the wedding ceremony. He did an awesome job!)
• The Speroni Wedding Reception
• Day off with Dad on Veteran's Day
• The Talbot's baptism (Chris and Jasmyn)
• Yummy Mexican food with the Sargeant Family
• Stake Conference and delicious pie with the Lamoreaux's and Jablonski's
• A sad farewell to the Ross Family

Anchor

I've been listening to Mendy Gledhill's new album all morning long. Her songs make me happy. Last night I attended her Anchor Concert in Mesa with my little sister. Although she looked kind of funny with her butterfly wings and danced goofy on stage I was secretly jealous of her many talents and tall, skinny figure. She was has an amazing voice and I love to listen to her songs as I clean the house and pick up all the little messes that my children leave for me. I know what you're thinking... I should make them clean it up. Sometimes I do, but most the time I'm too lazy and like to make more work for myself.

Thanks Michelle for a fun time.