Florida FUN!!!!

Since I have not blogged in a while my next few post will be a bit of playing catch-up!

In October we took a quick trip to Florida. It was a fun get away but had to be short due to missing school. We were able to spend a day at Cocoa Beach, which is 1 hour east of Orlando. The temperature was in the low 70's so most of us didn't venture in the ocean but Randee, our usual mer-girl, spent hours splashing in the cool water. Ali also took a dip but quickly decided it was just too cold! The rest of us spent the day searching for shells, walking along the beach and still enjoying the beauty and relaxation offered only by the awe of the ocean.

Rae & G'ma Beve searching for shells.

Randee, pre-swim.

Nate spent much of his time taking photos of the beautiful scenery.

Ali looking at the Atlantic.

Rae chasing the seaguls.



We spent an evening minature golfing, which is always fun!!

Randee taking a break while waiting for her turn.

Ali in a HUGE pot!

Nate got a little confused with which sport we were playing =)

All of our sweet kiddos!!

Ran helping Rae.


The high lite of the trip was our day at Disney World!!! The weather was perfect and the lines weren't bad at all!! It was an enjoyable, LONG day!! We arrived at the park at 9am and left at 11:30pm! We were T.I.R.E.D. but it was worth every smile!!

Ran and the kiddos ready for a day of fun!

Rae trying to pull the sword out of the rock from the Sword and the Stone movie.

Ali in front of the castle at night time. It was so pretty all lit up! It was also cool to see Tinker Bell fly down in the dark.

Randee, Ali and Rae on the much loved Dumbo ride!

The parade was a favorite for all of us!! I love this picture because you can see Snow White and Prince Charming waving at Ran and Rae!!

Randee and I waiting for the parade to start.

(I love my teenage BFF)

Rae and Ali with Pooh and Tiger!! Very Exciting!!

Rae was sooooo happy to get her face painted like a princess kitty! She and Ali were all smiles the entire day!! They rode every ride they could and walked every step without complaining! Ran and I had the most fun watching their faces =)

The whole gang with Pooh and Tiger! Nate and Randee also had a fun time and were great sports with ALL the kiddie rides. (thanks teenagers!!)

It was a fun trip with lots of great memories!!

I'm making it......

Life is not always perfect or fun or easy. As a matter of fact, sometimes it's just plain HARD!!! I've had some struggles of my own the past few months and it has taught me a great deal and also reminded me of what is truly important. I've learned that we ARE stronger than we think! Heavenly Father knows us and He knows what our abilities are, especially when we doubt, He knows. I've learned that the Atonement is a miracle that can heal us is many ways. I'm reminded how much I love my elder brother, Jesus Christ and so desperately need him in my life. I've have been reminded what a sweet, special blessing my children are and that my Heavenly Father often shows His love for me through them; they are so loving and patient with me. I've learned how important it is to continually fill our spiritual reservoir so when the storms come, and they will come, that we are prepared to face them. My love for Ran has increased! Our covenants made in the Temple are real and powerful. I completely believe with my entire soul that he and I were together before this life; we will be after. I've learned how much Satan wishes to destroy families. He is real yet, with Christ on our side he has NO power! My trials will be different from yours but we will ALL have trials. That is our purpose on earth, to be tested and prove ourselves to our Father in Heaven. I honestly believe that I did not actually realize in the pre-existence how HARD this life could be or maybe I've just forgotten the faith I knew my Heavenly Father had in me and that no matter what, I would NOT fail!!! I am stronger. My love for my Savior has grown. My need for Him has increased. So if we are here to prove ourselves by turning to Christ through our trials, at least for this one I can check it off.
I'm making it!
Heavenly Father, I know you are proud~