We are on vacation!!!

Gary took this picture of the kids as we were visiting the arch in St. Louis (we also visited the golden arches, but that doesn't photograph as nicely :)). We are on our way to Jellystone Park outside of St. Louis to meet up with all of our cousins. We will check back in later!

Andrew gets promoted!

Last week, Andrew completed all of his kindergarten work. We celebrated with him today on his promotion to first grade. Several weeks ago, he was tested for entry into first grade at Ventura Missionary School. He showed reading at a second grade level and spelling and math at a first grade plus level. We are very proud of his hard work!

I love being a mother!

I want to start by apologizing for not blogging for several weeks. We have been busy, I forget the camera at appropriate times, and I have been very sick this past week---these are my excuses :)

I love being a mom---especially to three such great kids! We tried to get a picture taken of all of us, and the result is posted above. I was most impressed by Wesley's art work. He did a drawing of me in his art class at school. I was impressed, not by the accuracy of the drawing, but by the fact that he could draw a human face so well.

I must take a minute to say thanks to my mom---one of the world's greatest mothers. Thanks for being a great mom to me as a child and thanks for being a great friend, mother, and grandmother to me and my children, now that I am an adult. We all love you, MOM!!!

Gary's post

Gary wants to display his progress on his executive desk. For those who check this site to see how the Beards are doing and to check out our kids, then just ignore this post :) For those who want to check out Gary's progress and make comments or criticisms, then look away!