Happy Birthday Payten and Zoe

It always amazes me how fast time really does go by. It has already been a year since Brett and Angela had their beautiful baby twin girls. A day that started out so happy and full of hope, ended with devastating news that Zoe would not make it. Heavenly Father was calling her home. As tragic as that night was, it was truly filled with the spirit, and strengthened an entire family's testimony of the Plan of Salvation. This life is not the end, and that thanks to the restoration of the priesthood, families can be together forever. This 1st year celebration was filled with similar emotions from their first day on Earth. Payten had a beautiful birthday party. I doubt she knew it, but she was incredibly happy to have so much family around and to get so much attention. She especially loved all the balloons. She got yummy candy and fun toys, and then got to chow down on the cupcake!

This little one is beyond cute and adorable, and just like her big sister, knows exactly how to work it, and has everyone completely wrapped around her little finger!

Following the fun and exciting birthday party, the family gathered together to send our birthday wishes to the Heavens to our little Zoe girl. Brett and Angela keep the graveside decorated and looking so beautiful showing that Zoe is absolutely loved and remembered. "Zoe's Garden" as they call it looked especially nice for her birthday. We were so glad to be able to go to Show Low to be a part of such a special day, and to give our love and support to our brother and sister and their family. It was very sad, but also an incredibly sweet sentiment. I definitely felt the spirit there as we bonded together as a family. I really liked this new tradition as a way to remember Zoe and have a physical, emotional and spiritual way to show she is remembered, missed and loved as we send our wishes her way. Each family member wrote their birthday wish and tied it to a balloon, and sent it on its way. Happy Birthday Girls! We sure love you!