Highlights from 2009.....

I am sorta behind on posting some awesome trips that we took over the summer and some highlights that took place in 2009. So I thought I would compile several different events and happenings that took place in the last year....

beware

{this is a long post, but it is for my personal family journal}

Last January, Austin had the opportunity to go back east with uncle Jason. They went to watch a Steelers game in Pittsburgh and tour Washington. They had a great time.

January 6th, Scott turned the

BIG 40...

he's an old man.

On February 14th, Cannon was baptized a member of

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.

What a special day for him. We love you, buddy.

We took the kids to Park City for spring break...

What a fun time with the Barney's Brown's and Farnsworth's

For the first time, we had great success with our summer garden. We planted it together as a family and each one of our kids found enjoyment in watering it and watching it grow.

We were pretty proud of ourselves.

On June 3rd,

Cooper turned 12

He was ordained a deacon and is now attending mutual. And, he finally got his first cell phone. He was so happy for that day to finally come. This kid makes our home complete. We love and appreciate him so much.

I got put in young women's last January, what a bonus to have your daughter in there with you. Girls camp was so fun.

I took the kids over night and stayed at the Pointe with a bunch of friends. The kids had a blast.

Austin and Taylor both got their braces off in June, within 2 weeks of each other. Just in time for our family pictures!

We spent the 4th of July at my parents home in Laguna Beach. That place is heaven on earth.

For Christmas last year, my parents took all my siblings and their spouses on a trip to Costa Rica! I have still not posted about what an amazing trip it was.... I'll just say, it was one of the best trips we have ever taken! Scott and I both want to go back and do it again, with our kids. My parents are awesome and amazing. Thanks so much for the amazing opportunities you have given to us!

We had a few days to empty our suit cases and pack the family up, for Aspen Grove. This was our third year and we loved every minute of it. We went with a bunch of our friends and had such a great time. We love you all so much.

{I still need to post about this trip as well}

This was a huge change in my life. For the first time in 15 years.... I am home alone, most of the day. We sent our baby off to 1st grade.

On August 21st, we celebrated our 16th wedding anniversary. We went and stayed at our condo in Park City. We relaxed and enjoyed each others company. It was pure bliss and I am looking forward to our next get away. I love you, babe.

Taylor decided it was time for her to receive her Patriarchal Blessing. What a special that was. We love you, Taylor.

For fall break, we took the kids to California and stayed at my parents house. We went to Disneyland and the San Diego Zoo. And, of course, we went to the beach.

At the beginning of November, I went as a leader, to our stake youth conference. Taylor missed the 14 year old cut off by 6 weeks. It was a lot of fun being with Austin and all his friends. What great youth we have in our ward/stake. We really are so fortunate to be surrounded by so many solid kids. I am grateful for all the leaders that put so much time into this youth conference. What an amazing experience for everyone who went.

and last, but not least, our newest addition to the Simas family....

Piper.

We are all loving her to pieces.

2009 was a hard and trying year for me. In saying that, I am grateful to be tried and tested. I know that hard things make me stronger and better. I am grateful for the Lord's hand in my life. I know that he is aware of me and loves me. He cares about the details in my life. I am grateful to have a chance to recommit myself and set some even harder goals for 2010. I know now, I can do hard things. I am anxious to see what 2010 has in store for the Simas family!