Back to Normal...sort of

Well, after a crazy and super exciting week last week I am glad to say we are somewhat back to normal. After Raylee's court hearing it was just non-stop action and our little star got to be the center of attention for two more big days (sealing and baby blessing). My brother flew in on Friday, so he could be here for Raylee's temple sealing on Saturday Feb 28th. Since, my mom had all of us here, she wanted family pics, so my friend and super-talented photographer, Camille, took our family pics. I can't wait to see how they turned out and post them.

Saturday, we got to go to the temple as a family and have Raylee sealed to us for time and all eternity. It was such an amazing experience and I am so glad I have had the opportunity to take both of my children there and have them sealed to Brett and I. Before entering the sealing room Brett and I sat in the hallway and got to see all our "guests" (aka family and friends) being escorted to the room. I think it gave me a tiny glimpse of what heaven must be like to see all the people I love and who love me and have been so supportive to be there on such a special day. Once we entered the sealing room, they brought Raylee and Bradock in. Oh, what a special moment. Raylee kept making these cute little "aaahh" sounds like "aaah I have been in a place like this before". She looked like an angel in her beautiful white dress that Grandma Flaherty bought for her. My friend, Rachel, did an awesome job at making her bows. I am so thankful to have such wonderful family and friends who really mean the world to me.

Papa and Bradock after the sealing.

Lovable Uncle Justin and the little superstar herself.

Chance and Cameron posing outside the temple...GQ here they come.

After the temple the family headed to Crackers for lunch. Raylee was so excited to be the center of attention again and be getting so much love from everyone.


I totally stole these pics from Sarah's blog. It was such a crazy, emotional and exciting week that my brain wasn't functioning and I totally forgot to take pics. Thanks for getting some cute shots, Sarah. I just wish I had more of everyone there, but these two sure are cute!



On Sunday, we were finally able to bless Raylee. Brett gave her a beautiful blessing. I think my favorite part was that he blessed her to be strong and courageous like her two mothers. Raylee is so lucky to have had such a wonderful birth mom that loved her so much that she wanted her to have a better life. I feel privileged that she chose me to be Raylee's mom and to love and cherish this beautiful, smart, attentive little girl. Raylee has brought so much joy into our life and I can't wait to enjoy all the moments from now until eternity.

Here's Raylee before her blessing on Sunday. I just love her dress...thanks Terri!!




The kids and I love playing in the kids' area at the mall. This was on Monday after our busy weekend. Bradock had a blast and both him and Raylee were nice and ready for a good nap afterwards.