The fourth of July was spent in Manti this year. We had a Lindsay family reunion there with cousins we hardly ever get to see. We had a great time playing with cousins, playing volleyball, eating, visiting, taking lots of pictures, painting rocks, setting off fireworks, and finished the night on temple hill where we watched the city’s firework display.
Livs went fishing with Brad and the scouts. She caught one of the two fish that were reeled in that night. She refused to let go of the big with her new friend inside of it, and fell asleep holding it. Grandma taught Aubree her new trick. 
I loved having sisters growing up and especially love it now! My sisters have turned into some of my very best friends! Each time we have a new baby and find out it is a girl, I am so excited to be giving my daughters another sister. I have always hoped they too would have close friendships.
I am currently reading a book by Dr. Laura about the joys of being a stay at home mom. She talks about how a mothers' compensation is hugs, loves, and kisses, amongst the other joyous moments you get to be present for. Sometimes, it is hard to be patient and wait for those moments.
Olivia and Aubree are beginning to form a strong friendship. They stand up for each other, watch out for each other, and even care about the others feelings (sometimes). Yeah!
I was leaving for the store with Aubree the other day and told Livs to stay home with Brad because she didn't have her job completed. Aubs broke down in big alligator tears and cried, "Don't leave Olivia, she's my best friend!" It was so sweet.
Anytime and every time I give them a choice, Aubs replies, "What is Olivia having?" She then wants to have the exact same thing as her.
While I was making dinner the other night, the girls were sitting at the table coloring. Without looking up Olivia said, "Aubree I love you." To which Aubs replied, "I love you too Olivia." They both continued to color as if nothing had been said, but I had to stop what I was doing to relish that sweet moment.
These moments might not happen too often, but this IS my compensation and I love it! I just have to remember them during all those other not so fun moments. I know what it was like growing up with a LOT of sisters. They too will hit their teens and fight over clothes and everything else you can think of, but for now, I will just enjoy these moments. I sure love these girls!
We were driving home from the store last night when a big bird flew into the windshield. It made a loud sound and left behind some gross looking stuff. Olivia looked up from eating and said, "What was that?" I told her that a bird flew into the windshield and she said, "I hope it's..." pause to take a drink. I am thinking that she will finish with something like not dead, or okay, and she finishes with, "a big bird so that I can get lots of new feathers." She is so very compassionate!
Madelyn sure does get the brunt of things sometimes. I don't know if it is being the third child or what, but it seems like she is always getting hurt. She fell out of the van and onto the gravel drive. From the looks of her, I think that she fell directly onto the top of her head. She cut her lip and bloodied her head. Poor Baby!
Today was a fun filled hot day. We started off the day at the kids bike rodeo. This is our second year attending and the girls love it. They get to ride their bikes all over the parking lot, be in races, play with friends, learn about being safe, and get hosed down by the fire truck. Livs was a little disappointed today because we had to leave before the fire truck sprayed its water. We met up with our friends and Brad and Livvy went rock climbing. Unfortunately, I have a broken foot and therefore did not want to struggle with the two youngest by the cliff all afternoon.. Brad and Olivia had a great time. Olivia is quite the climber.
Happy Birthday 1st Miss Maddie. We are so lucky to have you as part of our family. You are the easiest happiest baby. It has been so fun to see you grow and change this past year. We sure do love you!
Favorite food: Fruit
Favorite Drink: Apple juice and chocolate milk
Favorite Thing to do: Swing, take baths, go on bike rides, be outside, make us laugh, read books, play the piano
1 reason we love Madelyn
1 – Maddie has the sweetest smile and the most contagious giggle. She is always happy and brings a wonderful spirit into our home.
