Our First Build-a-Bear Experience

Wes' big present from us was a trip to Build-a-Bear. A first for all of us. He didn't remotely need a new stuffed animal, but he loves them, so we thought this would be a fun gift.

Sydney desperately wanted to do one, too, but we told her she had to use her own money. Eventually, I convinced her to save her money until she could afford all of the items she wanted (like the heart song, and the animal, and accessories) for her stuffed animal.

Wes still loves "puppies" for whatever reason (not real ones so much as pictures and stuffed ones), so that's what he picked!

After picking his song - the Star Wars theme song - Wes was ready to stuff his dog.

The helpers at Build-a-Bear were amazing. I was so impressed with them!

Making a wish for his puppy. So cute. I like Sydney's look as well. :)

Wes giving his puppy its first bath.

Wes picked out a Jedi outfit and named his dog "Luke".

Silly family picture! Apparently all we know how to do to be silly is stick out our tongues. :)

Wesley's 6th Birthday (The Actual Day)

On Wesley's actual birthday, April 16th, Brian had to go out of town so we had a little celebration in the morning before Wes went to school.

Wes got to pick a cereal for breakfast and he picked Cookie Crisp. We also had doughnuts in lieu of birthday cake. (But really, same difference, right?)

After he got dressed, he got to open his presents. He's excited about his one!

He got a blow-up shield and sword from Sydney.

Sibling love. :)

Cool coloring books!

Since Brian was out of town I (once again) took the kids to Red Robin by myself. This was Wes' reaction to being sung to by the employees for his birthday.

Enjoying Wes' birthday sundae!

And Wes wanted to show off his new watch.

When we got home the kids had a grand time with their balloons while I fed Ruth.

I took this picture to send to Brian of Wes playing with his new Spider-man basketball hoop.

Ruth LaRue's Blessing Day

Brian blessed Ruth LaRue Hanks in our Sacrament Meeting on Sunday, April 14, 2013. We had a lot of family come into town for the event and it was a beautiful Spring day. And, there are LOTS of pictures below!

This picture was actually from during Wes' birthday party the day before. Sleepy sister!

This picture was from the previous day as well. This is my Grandma LaRue Swensen meeting Ruth LaRue for the first time.

Cousin Lanie seemed to like Ruth okay. :)

Swensen cousins in a line!

Daddy and his two daughters!

The Hanks Family of five.

My sweet baby Ruth. I'm absolutely loving having a baby again!

Mother and (sleepy) daughter.

Ruth in her dress.

Ruth slept much of the morning but that's okay because she looked like a sweet little angel!

The original Swensen Family of five. I absolutely love my families!

Me and my sisters.

Luckily it was a nice morning so the kids could play around in and outside!

Brian with his grandma Ruth Smith.

Ruth with her Great Grandma and Grandpa Smith.

Grandma Ruth and Grandma LaRue with Ruth LaRue. This will be a favorite picture, I'm sure. :)

Aunt Janna and Ruth.

Brian with his sister, Janna, and Ruth.

Brian's cousin, Marsha, and her husband, Warren are in our ward (and are the reason we live where we do!). Marsha is due very soon with her 5th...also a girl!

An almost smile from Ruth with Brian and his parents.

It must have been too bright for me and Ruth in this picture with the Hanks parents!

Ruth with her Grandma and Grandpa Hanks.

Uncle Ken even came to our Sacrament Meeting for the blessing. Ruth is so loved.

Grandma Hanks and Sydney. Cuteness.

Ruth with Grandma and Grandpa Swensen.

Ruth, Me, Grandma Swensen, and Great Grandma Swensen.

Ruth with Grandma and Grandpa Swensen and Uncle Kirk.

Just the three of us: Mom, Dad, and Ruth. SO glad she came to live with us!