Emma's Party

Cousins are so much fun. Dan and Little Reid decide to romp on the floor. It was so cute.
Joe and his nephew. Joe tends to confuse Reidster, because Reid thinks he's his daddy. Other than height, Joe and Rod do look alot alike.
Emma in her birthday crown with Hyrum and her Uncle Nate. Nate is married to Naomi, Joe's sister. It was a special treat having them there because they live in St. George. Uncle Nate's birthday is today. It's his magic birthday. 24 on the 24th. So Happy Birthday Uncle Nate.

So here is Aunt Naomi, Emma, Grandma, and Great Grandma Merkley.

All cute in her princess crown. Along with some freshly cut hair and some prettied up nails. She even got to go to the salon for it all.

A new bandana from Aunt Naomi.

A fairy cake that Emma picked out herself.
Blowing out her candle.

All in all this was a blast. Probably more for us adults but the kids did have a lot of fun with their cousin. This was our last family gathering before Joe deploys. It really was a lot of fun. Joe leaves on Tuesday. It's kind of scary. I know we've been gearing up for this for a while and he's been gone most of the last couple of months, but now he won't be a couple of hours away anymore. I couldn't see him then, but proximity does make a difference. Now I have to say goodbye and their are going to be so many people around and the media. It's weird to be caught up in all of that. Oh well. We sure are trying to have the best few days together as a family and so far we are doing pretty good. Here's a wave to all the soldiers and especially to their families who sacrifice so much for their country.