Oquirrh Mtn Temple Open House

James' uncle David was the architect for the Oquirrh Mtn temple. We got a special tour and I think I finally realizes just how much work and effort goes into making a temple. We had a huge Bennion family picture outside. I think Heavenly Father blessed us for going that day because while touring the temple, I got THE phone call that I could be interviewed for the Hall Advisor job!

First smiles!

Jackson started smiling at 4 weeks.... Even in the middle of night when I walk over to pick him up, he smiles so big. It amazes me that he can be so happy ALL the time. I guess James was like that as a baby. Kathleen says she can't ever remember a time he didn't wake up happy. So far, Jackson's on the same pattern!

Jackson's Baby Blessing

We blessed Jackson at James' parents house in Mesa on July 19. Wilford was able to preside and we had both families all there which was nice. James thought he would be nervous but he did such a good job and claimed he really felt like a father. Jackson had all his uncles, grandpa's (minus gr-grandpa bennnion) and even Adam Brown in the circle. He is sure lucky to have such great men as examples. Here's some of the main points...

> faith to rely on your Heavenly Father and in the Atonement of His Son, Jesus Christ.
> As the world continues to decrease in righteousness, you will increase in righteousness.
> you will not waiver
> wisdom to follow the example of good and righteous people around you
> gift of discernment
> understanding of gospel doctrine
> mind will be alert and that you will constantly know right from wrong
> the desire and power to always choose the right.
> while others around look to satisfy themselves, the Holy Ghost will invite you to look outside of yourself to the needs of others.
> to be an example to your younger siblings.
> serve a mission
> the gift of forgiveness to forgive your parents their faults and forgive others

We sure love our little guy and can't believe how fast he grows up!

A much needed trip to AZ

We sure loved taking the baby down to AZ. My family took one look at my wardrobe and off we went to Mesa Thrift. Somehow the maternity clothes just weren't cutting it any more. Thankfully, I was able to get a few new clothes to help me make it through my "transitional" stage. (Which strangely, I'm still in 3 months later!)

We spent some quality time at the cabin too saying goodbye to the family. James' parents, and Sam and Spencer, left for the Dominican Republic a few weeks ago. They will live there for the next 6 years with an occasional trip home in the summer and conference. We sure are already looking forward to it! I've been so impressed with James' ability to say goodbye. I struggle even just leaving AZ from vacation, but somehow, he always sees the positive.