she's 8!

this is the outfit kalei chose to wear to school for her 8th birthday. is anyone else as shocked as i was? a dress!!! (with shorts underneath, of course.) a dress!!! woohoo!!! who knows, maybe next she'll want to layer or wear tights - keeping my fingers crossed! anyhoo, she had a lovely day with a few fabulous (chosen by her) presents. my favorite quote of the day happened at sam's club when she was pointing out something else she wouldn't mind for her birthday:

mama: you've already gotten some fabulous presents today.
kalei: there's something else i would like for my birthday.
mama: what's that?
kalei: to go to the bathroom.
mama: we can do that.

yes! an easy wish granted - i love it!

for those of you who may not know, 8 is a special age in our faith. when kids turn 8, they know right from wrong, and can be baptized into full membership of our church (and therefore accountable for their choices - we, as her parents, are accountable for teaching her how to build her faith in Jesus Christ and how to make good choices and how to repent of the not-s0-good ones). kalei had her interview with our bishop on sunday, and he found her worthy to be baptized. so, if you're going to be in the area - you're invited!

and there will be cookies! double bonus!! hope to see you there!

p.s. special thanks to malia for designing this spectacular baptism announcement - we bow to your superior design skillz!

p.p.s. another special thanks to bethany & crew for hosting us in italy where the announcement photo was taken - it was an unforgettable trip - we're so glad to have you back!