Molly is 11 months

Molly likes to be the centre of attention. She is a Mama's girl to the max. She is currently getting 6 new teeth. I'm sure some of her fussiness has to do with that. She dropped her 2nd nap in the last two months. She can walk along furniture like a pro and can stand on her own. Her balance is great. She has the cutest smile and contagious giggle. She loves to babble a lot. 

Molly was hanging out with me today while I was resting in bed. 

Happenings

Bathroom renovation number #1 has begun. A full Saturday to demo, all the way down to the floor boards. We had to cut out some drywall, due to mold. Progress! Now we must be patient as we build our new bathroom. 

Brynn gave Macy a makeover. But needed some help with the hair. These moments where two children are getting along, are precious. 

We try to eat donuts the 12th day of every month in honor of Ryan Henrie, who died on June 12 in a car accident. This time we made them. So delicious and not very difficult. They are baked so it's basically a sweet bun with glaze or icing on it. 

We've been trying new hair dos for Macy, thanks to a website called "babes in hair land". This was for Valentine's Day. 

Brynn likes pictures taken in nature. 

Spencer enjoying his smoothie after declaring that he doesn't like smoothies. 

Brynn crushed this gum package while watching one of Joel's basketball games. It was intense. Her friend played for the other team and she cheered for Joel! Happy parent moment!!

His tricks on the new trampoline, the way he swings, and wanting to plant the garden in January because it was warm. 

Why do I have children?

1. When I chose to marry Stan in the Logan Utah temple for time (on earth) and eternity, I made a covenant with him and with God that I would obey all of God's commandments. The commandment to "multiply and replenish the earth" was given at this time. 

2. As I read in the ensign today, it's more than obeying an important commandment. Elder Paul B Pieper says this "bearing and raising children helps us develop our capacity to become like God." I certainly need lots of help becoming like God. This has made me think. Why/how does raising children help me become like God? Well, it forces me to serve, day in and day out, during the night, etc for as long as my children need me. Isn't this forever? I'm sure it will change as time goes by and they leave home. When I choose to willingly serve, it brings me joy and that is one reason I am here on Earth. 

Raising children allows me to share the gospel with them, my greatest investigators. As I study and grow in the gospel so I can teach them, I grow closer to God and become more like Him. 

I'm sure there are others but these are my thoughts today. 

The more children I have, the more work, both spiritual and physical, it is for me and the more opportunity I have for growth. I'll take it.