Little Dancer

This little darling had a dance recital a little over a week ago. It was so fun to see her dance the night away. She did so well, especially for being one of the younger ones in her class. And that huge Rachel grin she kept flashing during the performance? Priceless.

Rachel was lucky to be able to have several relatives attend the recital. We only got a picture with Grandma and Sue.

For Eternity

My adorable baby brother got married a few weeks ago. The bride is a lovely Southern girl named Anna and I couldn't be happier for them! Ben and I spent the day in Salt Lake attending the sealing in the temple and enjoying a yummy luncheon at the Blue Lemon. It was such a special day and it was wonderful to witness the creation of a brand-new eternal family. I'm so grateful for the gospel. Aren't they the cutest couple ever???

It was awesome to see my family again! I loved goofing off with my sister amongst all of the picture-taking.

I got to be a bridesmaid and was a little wary of the bridesmaid outfit (how it would look on ME--yellow and horizontal stripes are not my thing!), but I think it turned out alright. :)

My honey and me

After the luncheon, we raced home to get the kids ready to head back up to the reception held in Draper. My sweet friend curled the girls' hair, which saved us a ton of time (thank you, Sarah!!!). The reception was held at a beautiful home and we all enjoyed crepes, wedding cake, and playing outside in the massive backyard. Emma was sick, unfortunately, and you can see it in the pictures. She spent a good amount of time lying on the couch. Poor girl.

There was some dancing too. And we took full advantage of it! Rachel, especially, danced the night away. It was pretty darn cute.

With the beautiful bride. The girls were in awe of her all evening and kept staring at her. :)

We're so happy for you, Cameron and Anna!

Emma's baptism was so beautiful. It was such a memorable day, one we will never forget! I don't think I was expecting to feel quite so emotional. It was perfect--the music, the talks, the prayers, the people--and of course, the baptism and confirmation. Emma and her siblings all felt the spirit so strongly that day. It was evidenced as Rachel sang her heart out during the closing song of "I Am a Child of God." It was evidenced as Emma came out of the font sobbing joyfully with the biggest smile on her face, while exclaiming over and over how clean and perfect she felt. We saw it in Luke as he gave Emma the tightest hug ever after she came back into the room. Ben and I are so proud of our sweet Emma and love her so much! And doesn't she look beautiful???

Right before the big event! It was so neat to see my husband baptize our little girl. What a special bonding moment for us.

We had a luncheon outside afterwards and the weather cooperated wonderfully. I completely overestimated the amount of food we needed, but now we have pulled pork to last us all summer! :) Thanks to all of you who helped out with the food, and I'm sorry if you went home with a pretty full dish still. I'll plan better next time! :) Some of our loved ones:

Opening special gifts. She received some neat keepsakes.

With Grandma and Grandpa Bergin. I'm kicking myself for not ever getting a picture of my whole family (who came all the way from Texas for this!!) with Emma. Oh well.

We are already looking forward to Rachel's baptism in 2 1/2 years!