Ruidoso New Mexico

This past week we went up to Ruidoso, New Mexico and celebrated the 4th of July with all the Cook brothers.  It was the first time in almost two years that they were all together.  We had fun being with each other.  We raced go karts, took the kids on a pony ride, paddle boats, eating, playing in the water, making 4th of July shirts, eating, played poker, celebrated Gina's birthday, but most of all just had fun. 

Taylor turns "1"

Here are a few pictures from Taylor's birthday party. We had a few friends over for cake and ice cream. It was a lot of fun. Taylor got some fun gifts. She wasn't too sure about the cake but she eventually warmed up to the idea. We love you little Taylor Jo and can't believe you are one already.

Super Saturday "Zions Place Mall"

Yesterday we had Super Saturday for our Enrichment Activity. It was a great success. It turned out so cute so I thought I would share some of the pictures with you. I need to give credit to the Taylor Ranch Ward Relief Society in Albuquerque where we got the idea. I had great help, April Stromberg and Kim Sanders that helped make this happen.

We used these bags above as the announcement in Relief Society.

The is what the foyer looked like when it was set up.

Everyone received a "Mall Map" that showed them where the classes were being held.

The invitation was a credit card idea with the theme being "Master in Charge"

We had two crafts that we did. The first one was a Thankful Jar. Everyone got to make one. This can be used at Thanksgiving where everyone rights on a piece of paper what they are thankful for and then they put it in the jar. The papers can be read at Thanksgiving dinner.

The second craft was binder clip photo holders for Halloween.

This is the sign that was hanging when people arrived. "Zions Place Mall"

Everyone received a shopping bag. On the back side was the schedule for the day.

The front side was decorated with the mall logo.

We had a Food Court that served cinnamon rolls from Cinnabon, bagels and the fixings from Einstein Bagel and then smoothies from Bahama Bucks. The tables were decorated with shopping bags.

We had five different classes.

Hallmark - This was a class that was taught on service. We had a service auction that turned out to be a lot of fun.

Childrens Place - This class talked about the foundation for effective communication.

Barnes and Noble - This class taught the importance of scripture study.

Then we had lunch followed by crafts.

We finished with two final classes.

Zales Diamonds - This class spoke on our inner beauty.

Things Remembered - This was taught by Bishop Winfrey and he talked about our stake vision for the family.

It was a great morning. Everyone got to go to all the classes and everyone left with two crafts.