Sam is 3

Sam is three so it's time for a REAL party.  Luckily I've had a couple other 3 year olds and just re-used my birthday ideas.  Come on over for a "Dog-on good time."

 Sam has play group once a week with a couple girls in our neighborhood.  We worked it so that we had playgroup on his birthday and had a little celebration.

 From L2R Athena, Jaya, Nate and Sam... Good thing we have brothers around here, otherwise all the girls might out number us.  Thanks Nate for being the wing-man at such a young age.

 All these cute doggies around my house.  This is MY kind of pet.

 Sam -- you have been such a joy, since the day you were born.  We sure love you and think you might be the cutest thing on earth.  We love your little speech issues, because it makes you that much cuter.  For some reason everyone that meets you.. church or friends... think you are about as cute we we think you are!  You have that winning personality and I hope you keep on smiling for at least another year!!  LOVE YOU.

Lucky that Grandma's funeral was on Sam's birthday so he got lots of cousin to celebrate his birthday with him... Can't have toooo many parties on your birthday right??

100 years for Grandma Hafen

My Grandma Hafen is the kindest, most talented, loving, gentle person I know.  I am sure glad I got to know here 34 years of her 99+ years on Earth. 

Grandma had an expression on her face of a smile always.  Even just when she was walking into our house from her car.  She always had treat with her and her freezer always had ice cream for us.

My Grandpa died when I was 12 and so I spent each Christmas eve until my mission sleeping at Grandma's house with my best cousin Tammy so Grandma wouldn't be alone.  Some of my best Christmas memories began at Grandmas.  

I remember calling her anytime I couldn't find my mom and she would drive from Santa Clara to our house every time.  Even if she knew my mom would be there probably before she could drive to me, but just knowing she was on her way was always relief.  She was our emergency contact growing up.  I loved living close to her and hope my kids can have the same kind of relationship with my mom and taylor's parents.  it's a special bond and I just always respected everything she had to say.  

I will miss you Grandma, I am a better person for knowing you. I hope your reunion with Grandpa is very sweet and rewarding.  Till we meet again.

 All the grandsons as Paul-bearers.

 At the cemetery next to Grandpa and baby Kim.

 The great and great great grandkids had fun getting to know each other.  The last week of Grandma's life she was able to see or talk to all of her 100+ posterity.  What an amazing lady, who has left and amazing legacy. 

Her funeral made me learn even more about her as my mom and siblings put on a great tribute for her.  It was such a neat family reunion, it was hard to be sad.  I just wish we didn't have to wait so long to be with those who pass on.  We are blessed to know the Plan at times like these.

Night out with-out dad

 Some bowling fun while dad was out of town on a business trip.  They boys were awesome,

with a little help from the bumpers and the slide. :)

Luke had kind of been a mess since the new year.  He got some weird hives all over his face (picture above) and then while playing at Porter's they had the lights off and he tripped and fell and hit his forehead.. which resulted in a massive black eye.  Serious boy, who beats you!

Funny that he looks happier with a black eye in his photos than when he is doing something fun!  You crack us up Luke.  LOVE YOU!

 And we have to have a picture of Jake and all his missing teeth..  It's so funny when they get adult teeth, I think..  They go from little boy to awkward kid. :)  But, we still love you, Jake no matter how goofy you look.