A couple of weeks ago we started giving Esther spoon foods and as you can see she enjoys it. She is not a big fan of green beans and peas but of course loves sweet potatoes and squash. When we first starting giving her spoon foods she would stick out her tongue a lot, which was hard to keep the food in. I talked with the occupational therapist at work and she said that the reason Esther does it is because that is how she swallows with the bottle, with her tongue. She suggested giving Esther teething biscuits or beef jerky, yes beef jerky. The idea is that Esther will learn to use the sides of her mouth and swallow with her tongue in her mouth. The beef jerky is hard enough that it won't break off either. Esther didn't want a whole lot to do with the teething biscuits at fist all she wanted was the beef jerky, go figure. But now she loves and prefers the teething biscuit and loves to make a mess. She is doing a lot better at eating and not swallowing with her tongue out of her mouth. She also has a new talent, she has learned to spit. I have to admit that it is really cute and funny until she spits up food and spits it all over everyone at church. I had to apologize a couple of times this last Sunday. I may have to get it on video so you see what I mean. She is just cute lovable Esther.

The Temple

On Saturday Feb 7th we took Esther to the Mount Timpanogos Temple to be sealed to Michael and I. I am not sure words can describe that day. I wish that every family could have this opportunity because there is just nothing more spiritual or precious. I was worried that Esther would be fussy through the ceremony but she was a perfect angel. She was so cute in her dress. Michael's mom made the dress and she did a great job, I could not have asked for anything better. The day was just perfect. The next day in church Michael blessed Esther. She was not happy before the blessing or after but was perfectly quiet during. I think she'd had enough of the bonnet. I just want to thank all of our friends and family for your love and support. Where would we be without you? We love you all.

The Temple

Going to Court

On Tuesday Feb 3rd we went to court to finalize Esther's adoption. It was a neat experience. I was really nervous never being in court before. The judge was running late so we had to wait about 20 minutes. Then we all entered the court room. Our lawyer was there, our social worker, Michael's mom and mine and of course Esther. We all rose when the judge came in and then Michael, myself, and our social worker were sworn in. Our social worker then took the stand and presented her finding which were that Esther was happy and adjusting well and that she should remain in our home. Then our lawyer began to ask me my questions. There were about 15 questions most of which were yes or no. Then he asked Michael about 4 questions. The judge then said that according to the information that was presented the best interested for the child was to remain in our home and he signed the paperwork and that was that. At that moment I had a great sense for relief. But the week was not over.

Dinner with Heather and family

The Saturday before we took Esther through the temple we got together with Heather and her family. It is great to see Heather again and for Heather to see Esther. We met at Village Inn for dinner. Esther was not quite sure what was going on but did not mind being passed around.