Wednesday, August 5, 2015

Thorley & Reynders Reunions 2015

We were ecstatic when we realized that we could attend this years' annual Thorley Reunion. We were unable to attend the last three reunions because of David's schooling in Missouri. It was so good to see everyone! Family is a beautiful thing. I am so grateful for the amazing family I was blessed to marry into.

The Original Thorley Clan
Add spouses... and get...
Exponential growth! and
Exponential silliness :)
Great Grandkid Fun!
Flowers on the Thorley point (elevation 10,000).

Wiping tears, trying to get a family picture...
Not very successful...
Peter looks good :). Just enjoying the view.
The best Dad ever!
After the extended family, Thorley Reunion, we held a little Reynders Reunion. I think it had been five years since we were all in one place. It was fun to spend time together and get to know our soon to be brother, Joshua Valem, Janet's fiance'. We also got to know Scott's girlfriend, Nicole. Hopefully we didn't frighten either of them too much ;).

The original Reynders
Siblings!


The beginnings of exponential growth and silliness :)
The grandkids :)

Friday, July 31, 2015

Murphy Family Reunion



We had our first Murphy Reunion this summer. It was the first time we were all together in a little over 4 years! It was great!





Our reunion was held here in Cedar City. My in-laws graciously allowed us to use their home and the Thorley Mountain. We had fun with all kinds of activities. We played games, held a family competition, hiked, and explored the mountain on four-wheelers and dirt bikes. There are some things that will be unforgettable. One being our Tie-die shirts!


We all made a shirt. Aren't they great?! Some people will never wear them again, but my kids loved it and have worn their shirts several times since.

Another unforgettable event was our friendly family competition. We split into three teams and competed in five different events. The most memorable event: Cheese Head! One member from each team had to wear a shower cap with shaving cream all over it. Then all other teammates threw cheese puffs at their head. Whichever team could land the most cheese puffs on their teammates head in one minute, won! It was a blast!


Something memorable for at least me and all the kiddos was the fun crafts and activities my awesome, big sister Vanessa planned. The kids made personalized binoculars and went on a nature hunt. They made balloon animals, painted rocks, did bubbles, and more.



One last thing that was unforgettable was the devotionals we had every night. Family unity can be found in many ways, but one of the most moving ways for me is when we can all connect spiritually. When we participate in spiritual discussion our spirits are unified, relationships, and testimonies are strengthened.


Twinners!














I am grateful for family. I am grateful for my family.

Sunday, July 26, 2015

Hannah is Two!


Our sweet Hannah Jo turned 2 on July 25th! She has grown so much in 2 years. I will never forget her dramatic, quick entrance into this world. She was eager to be here in our family and we are sure grateful for the blessing she has been. She is our little peacemaker (most of the time). She likes to help people be happy. She shares well, especially for a 2-year-old. This is a fun age for me to observe and strive to parent. It is a hard stage, but fun. I can remember each of my kids learning their autonomy around this age. Hannah is definitely trying to figure this out as well. 


Some of Hannah's favorite foods are strawberries, watermelon, Raisin Bran cereal, peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, cheese quesadillas, scrambled eggs, pasta, green beans, and corn.

Things Hannah likes to do: 
-Play pretend with dolls and stuffed animals
-Read books
-Color
-Leggos or blocks
-Brush her teeth
-Be with her family

We sure love our sweet Hannah! Happy Birthday!

Bed head :)


Somewhere Over the Rainbow

Almost got it this year! We had to help her blow out the candle.
Hannah's 2-year Stats:
Weight - 27 lbs, 53%
Height - 35.5 in, 87%
Head - 19.25 in, 84%