2025/2026 school year

 Summer has come to an end, and the first day of school is here. I wish those sunny days lasted a little longer, but here we are—school has begun for everyone.

✨ Paetyn started kindergarten this year! We’re doing a hybrid program, so she’ll go on Thursdays with other homeschool kids, and I’ll be teaching her at home the rest of the week.

✨ Kayla is officially in 7th grade! She chose to do online school through Kelsey Peak Virtual, which still blows my mind but fits her perfectly.

✨ Myleigh is in 8th grade! She surprised me by not going back to Paradigm High, even though she loved it last year. Turns out, she may have loved the social side more than the early mornings and long days.

✨ And then there’s Braxton… today was his very last first day of high school. My heart is a little broken, but I’m so proud and excited for what this year will bring him. With most of his credits already finished, he only has three classes this year—some of them college-level math—so he’s hoping for a lighter schedule as he enjoys senior year.

And of course, we miss Kenzie so much this time of year. We can’t help but wonder about the “what ifs” and where life would have taken her—probably somewhere in the medical field, helping others like she always wanted to. We love and miss her deeply. 🩵

I hope this school year brings learning, growth, and lots of new beginnings for all of them. 🩵

Back to school crew.

Happy 45th birthday to me

 Thank you everyone for sending love to me today—whether through Facebook, text, or phone calls. It truly meant so much. Today I made it about me, which I hardly ever do, but I thought, why not? It’s my birthday! I even kept reminding my kids and Tyler, “It’s MY birthday!” 😂

I wanted to spend the day with family, and that’s exactly what I did. Braxton took me out to lunch, which was so sweet. Later, we went to Top Golf together—it was so much fun, even though I was terrible at it (haha). We also visited Kenzie. I miss her so much, but I felt her with me today, and maybe that’s why the day felt so good

It was a really good day, and I’m hopeful that 45 brings lots of love and joy this year. 🥰🎉 You all know how to make a girl feel special. 💖

First day fo school 2025/2026

 Paetyn’s First Day of Kindergarten 💕

So many emotions today—mostly mine. My baby is growing up. While we are homeschooling, Paetyn will also be going to Canyon Grove on Thursdays for a full day of hands-on learning with other homeschool kids.

I can’t help but remember when she was the therapy baby in the hospital while Kenzie was waiting for her transplant—and now here she is, ready for kindergarten. She’s been my little sidekick and best friend these last 5 years, and now I’m sending her off once a week to learn, grow, and make new friends. She had a hard time being dropped off this morning, but I know she will shine and have the best time.

My heart is so full knowing I get the blessing of teaching her, watching her learn, and seeing her grow. They are little for such a short time, and in the blink of an eye they’re grown.

Paetyn, I know you will do great things. Go show the world how amazing you are! Love you, sweet girl—have the best day ever. 🌸✨

Kayla 12th birthday

Happy Birthday to Miss Kayla (Kiki)!

I can’t believe we’re here — 12 years ago you were born, and life hasn’t been the same since. You’ve brought so much light, love, and just the right amount of sass into this world. Now you’re rocking your golden birthday and your new highlights — absolutely glowing inside and out. You’re learning to navigate this big world with kindness and love, even on the rough days. We are so grateful we get to celebrate you today, and we hope it’s as bright and beautiful as you are. 💛

 What is your favorite color?

Pink

Who is your best friend?

Madeline

Favorite subject in school?

nothing

Favorite Food?

Roast

Favorite super hero?

spiderman

Favorite Movie?

Wreck it Ralph

What do you want to be when you grow up?

Baker

Favorite restaurant?

Texas Roadhouse 

Favorite snack/candy bar?

Takis/KitKat 

Favorite soda?

Dr. Pepper 

Kayla's 12th birthday party

 We celebrated Kayla’s 12th birthday party yesterday, even though her actual birthday is on August 12th. She had the sweetest pajama spa party—complete with facials, manicures, treats, and a chocolate fountain. As the girls were doing their nails and listening to music on YouTube, The Climb by Miley Cyrus came on. The moment stopped me in my tracks—it instantly reminded me that Kenzie is never far, especially on days like this. It brought tears to my eyes, feeling her love and presence with us. I know she was there, watching and celebrating Kayla’s special day right alongside us.

Kayla had so much fun with her friends, and my heart is full seeing her grow up. I can’t believe she’s almost 12 years old.