Synchro State Competition

Olivia just competed in the Arizona State Synchro competition. This is the big qualifying meet for Regionals next month. It was an awesome weekend!

She took third place in figures (her lowest finish this year, but she's happy with it. Especially since 2 1/2 weeks ago, she couldn't walk or swim because her knee was injured).

She also swam a duet and a trio. Both took FIRST PLACE!!! So exciting!
Her team finished in second place, so all three of her routines will go on to Regionals, and (keep your fingers crossed), Nationals.

Olivia, Kaylee, Jenna and Addisyn

We shared the trip with some fun synchro friends, and we had a great time getting sunburned, windburned, sleep deprived, dehydrated and knoxed together.

If you'd like to see these awesome girls swim, come to the Watershow on May 2!!! It's going to be great, and it's so much fun to watch.

Just Julia

Note: Last the best of all the game.

How do I love Julia?

Let me count the ways...1. She loves to snuggle with me in the mornings. And she fits so perfectly in my arms.

2. She is my buddy. She always wants to go with me. I will never be friendless as long as Julia is around.

3. She loves me to tuck her in at night. And she always gives me hugs and kisses. Even if I've not been very nice or patient.

4. She instantly forgives me (see above). And she doesn't hold a grudge. It's nice to know that I have her unconditional love. I'm glad she's an example to me. I hope to be better at this.

5. She is willing to try new things. Unlike her siblings. I can always count on Julia to try whatever I have made for dinner. Most of the time, she likes it! That doesn't mean she'll eat it again, but she tries it. And I appreciate that.

6. She leaves me notes and presents. Especially when she sees that I'm having a bad day.

7. She wants to help me with whatever I'm doing. Sometimes, I'm not very patient, but I know I always have a willing helper if I want it.

8. She is content to be a home-body. She doesn't constantly demand to play with friends, which I will forever be grateful for.

9. She loves to snuggle. (Did I already say that?) But really, she loves to snuggle. And I love to hold her. Soon, she'll be too big, so I think I better take advantage while I still can.

10. She completes our family. I needed her, and I'm so glad that Heavenly Father sent her to me. Love you, Little One.

Sam the Sweet

Note: #3 of 4. Just because I can.

Sam the Sweet

(I know it doesn't make sense on first thought, but really, he is very sweet underneath it all)

Oh, my Sam-O. What would I do without you? What can I do with you?

I love you so much, but you can make me so crazy at the same time. Just when I think you have finally done something so horrible that I'll be mad at you forever, you ask for a hug, or you climb on my lap, or you give me a present. How can anyone stay mad?

You are so full of energy, so full of life. You live every moment to the fullest, and you don't want anyone telling you that you can't do something. I believe that you will do great things in this life. I believe you will be an important person, to more than just your family.

You are a smart little cookie, and I think a lot of people underestimate you, including me at times. It amazes me when you read my books to me, or figure out really complex math problems, or memorize complete TV shows.

You are creative. You have an amazing imagination, and I love to see it come out when you play with Julia. I love when you share and encourage others. I've seen you do it, so I know you can. Especially with younger kids. It makes everyone happy.

I love your dimples. Kissable.

I love each of my children, but I had a special experience with you, Sam, when you were very small. Nothing can ever make me stop loving you. Nothing.

Olivia the Original

Note: second of four "why I love my kids" posts. Really, just letters to my kids. Or whatever.

Why I love Olivia:

You are beautiful. Don't ever let anyone make you feel you aren't. But what I really love is that you are beautiful on the inside, too. You are always so concerned with how everyone else is feeling. You want to be everyone's friend. You want everyone to be happy and content.
You are smart and funny. You always try your hardest, and you succeed. If you don't understand something, you aren't afraid to ask for help. You love to learn, and you do well in school. And you love to read (just like me).

You are a talented synchronized swimmer. I love to watch you. You are always happy in the water, and it shows in your swimming. You have such confidence in the water. I think you truly believe that nothing is impossible. You can accomplish anything you want, in any area of your life if you believe it is possible.

You are a patient big sister. I love that you will play with Julia and Sam, and that you will try to find ways to interact with them that make everyone happy. You are always willing to go along with crazy ideas because you are willing to put their happiness ahead of your own at times.

You always want to give me hugs and spend time with me. I appreciate this, even though sometimes I think I don't have the time or patience for it. Thanks for making me realize that we all need moments of closeness and that a hug makes almost any day just a little bit better. I love you so much, my B.

Dan the Man

Note: I have decided to spend a day reflecting on what I love about each of my children. So, starting with the oldest...

Dan the Man

• I love that you are so stinkin' cute! I know you probably don't want to hear you mom say that, but you are very handsome. (But I'm sorry you got my nose).

• I love that you are responsible. I know that when I leave you in charge nothing horrible will happen. That's not to say that stuff won't be messed up, dirty or that there won't be fights, but I know that when it's all said and done, everyone will be safe.
  
  
• I love that you are smart. And that you know it's cool to be smart. I wish you would always try to do your very best and challenge yourself. But, I also know that you need time to just "hang" with friends and be a kid.

• I love that you are ambitious. And that you are a leader. If it were up to me, I would have discouraged you from running for Student Body President last year, because I didn't want you to be hurt if you didn't win. But you did win, and you have handled it wonderfully. I'm grateful that you haven't let it go to your head, that you are still friends with everyone and that you never make anyone feel badly because they maybe aren't as smart or popular as you are.

• I love that you are musical. And that you fill our house with music on a regular basis. I wish that you would always find joy in this, because it brings me joy, too. I'm so proud of the job you did in District Honor Orchestra. I wanted to stand up and make sure everyone knew that you were my son.

• I love that you are inquisitive. As much as I have dreaded the "mod"ing of your dart gun, it makes me proud to see what you can do. Now, just don't shoot your brother.

• I love that you like to play games and spend time with your family. Family is important, if for no other reason than that we will always love you no matter what. You are an important and vital part of us, and we would be lost without you. Love you, Dan.