Troy Turns 8

Troy's birthday lands on Spring Break, so we were lucky enough to have Grandma Allsop visit for the week during his birthday. We played at home a lot. We actually sang the night before Troy's birthday, because Ben and I were going to the temple with the ward the next night. It was a really special opportunity and we hadn't been together since Miles was born. But the kids didn't care because they got to eat cake a day early!

We attempted the zoo on Thursday. It was SO busy. Not sure I would choose to go again during spring break, but we took advantage of the outing! The Wiest's got us in for practically free and our kids loved being with each other. We had a few interesting episodes with the monkeys... But they were mostly entertaining. Katelyn couldn't wait to see the PINK flamingos. Troy and Liam loved seeing the leopard and elephants. 

Birthday gifts when we got home! Troy was so excited for his soccer shoes and Nexo Knight sets. They are still on the table as I write this, center of attention.

My mom flew in Friday night. After Ben and Mom Allsop went to the rodeo, they picked her up. The next morning was Troy's baptism. It went so well. I can't even describe the joy that filled me as I was cutting fruit that morning and thinking about Troy, his choice and discussions we had had, and Ben's worthiness and faith in the gospel. The gospel brings me joy, it brings me peace. 

I didn't want to be in this picture, so I'm standing super awkward because I was about to leave, but then was told to stay. Haha. Crop me out and I LOVE this picture with Troy and Ben. 

My mom had the cutest talk on Baptism. She talked about the three bears. Bear His name, Bear your testimony, and Bear one another's burdens.

Grandma Allsop did not disappoint. Troy was excited to see each item that was in that bag and the adults were grateful for each explanation. I'm excited to continue to remind him of the meanings. My favorite was the sea shell. You have to listen hard to hear, just like the Holy Ghost whispering. Troy's favorite was the compass. He wears it every day. 

Bishop Robertson was presiding. Maria Torbit gave the opening prayer and Aunt Colleen gave the closing. Uncle Dean and Chris Boyer were the witnesses. Ben did the baptism and confirmation. Troy, Liam, and Katelyn sang the Fourth Article of Faith (it was SO adorable) acapella. We had a short slideshow of Troy. Christine Martin presented Troy with his CTR towel from the primary and welcomed him as the newest member. Bishop reviewed some of the things he had talked about with Troy in his interview. The three CTR's, Choose the Right, Choose to Remember, and Choose to Repent. Troy knew what a covenant was. A promise between him and God. I was grateful to everyone who came. Roseanne came with her three girls. Dan, from Ben's work, came to support. All of our ward family. The Boyers, Torbits, Robertsons, Christensens, Sorensons, Mansfields, and Troy's primary teacher, Sister Sloan, who is an all-star teacher. Troy has learned so much from her. He came home one Sunday and shared with us the first vision and the beginning of Joseph Smith's life. I'm so grateful for the wonderful teachers Troy has had. He even found a magnet of Christ last night that he received from Sister Mills last year. He said, "This is really special to me, mom."

Next, a forced picture after we got home because I didn't get one earlier. They were both exhausted and Ben was barely holding on to the little energy he had left. He was sick, poor guy. But it's a wonderful picture! Thank you sweet family!

Troy also received his Book of Mormon with his name on it after we got home. I'm excited for him to develop his own testimony of this wonderful book. He couldn't wait to start highlighting it with his new highlighters from Grandma Allsop. He reads for us every night at scriptures and in the morning. He uses his bookmark. 

After the baptism, Ben took Mom Allsop to the airport. We were sad to see her go, it always goes by too fast. Not enough time to chat, play games. We will miss her energy and positive attitude! 

My mom went with Dean and Colleen to the temple. They had a great time. My mom is here for the week, till Saturday morning. I'm grateful for her help and expertise in sewing. We hit up the scout store and bought his whole uniform.  My mom stitched on his troop number. 

Handsome boy! He was ready for his first day of cub scouts! They went on a hike.

One last picture of my mom helping me. She would sit next to the boys while they practiced or did their reading or homework. It's been nice having her help, encouragement, and calm nature around!