Too long since last update

I can't believe that it has been so long since I last updated our lives. First of all, Piper Elisabeth joined our family five months ago, November 8, 2010. She is a true joy to have in our home. There is something about a new baby, fresh from the presence of our Heavenly Father, that seems to help put life back in perspective. A week following her birth as I was settling in for a few hours of sleep I had the worst pain I have ever experience, and it would not go away, only increased in intensity. Needless to say, despite my obstinance at needing help to get to the hospital (which is less than a mile away!) the ambulance was called. After hours of trying to determine what was wrong, it was discovered that I had some internal bleeding, most likely a result of the birth (remember that happened a WEEK prior). Anyway, I was stuck in the hospital for a week waiting for everything to stabilize. As Tad and I look back we both seem to have a greater appreciation for life, not to mention the significance of our relationship.

On a brighter note, last week we celebrated (maybe I should say acknowledged as Tad was out of town) our 21st wedding anniversary. When we met I had so many different aspirations than what I am now doing, but I wouldn't change a thing. We are looking forward to Jocelyn graduating in a month and then continuing her education in Logan, Utah. Talia just returned to BYU-I last weekend and is now halfway through her college career. I love to listen to her play the piano. She has been so blessed with this talent. I still maintain the belief that Grandma Annis has blessed her with this gift, even though there are no blood ties, but anything is possible with the Lord on your side.

So much has happened it would take forever to catch up on it all. Suffice it to say, since our recent stake conference (did I mention that since Tad is in the stake presidency we have the occasional opportunity to be taught by visiting general authorities as happened this past conference?) in addition to listening to and trying to apply the things we heard in General Conference, I have felt a greater desire to try and keep a more accurate family history. Some days I have a difficult time even finding time to put on makeup and fix my hair, but I hope that good intentions count for something. Even if I post only once a month I will be showing improvement, right?