Beginning of the Birthday Hat

When we went to pick up birthday balloons today, Nate found this fabulous hat. He tried it on and did a little dance and I just had to buy it. It is now our "birthday hat" only to be worn by the birthday king or queen. Happy 2nd birthday Mitchell!

Preparing the Manger

"True happiness comes only by making others happy - the practical application of the Savior's doctrine of losing one's life to gain it. In short, the Christmas spirit is the Christ Spirit, that makes our hearts glow in brotherly love and friendship and prompts us to kind deeds of service.

It is the spirit of the gospel of Jesus Christ, obedience to which will bring 'peace on earth,' because it means - good will toward all men."  

 -President David O. McKay

The Christmas Star

The plants' association with Christmas began in 16th century Mexico, where legend tells of a young girl who was too poor to provide a gift for the celebration of Jesus' birthday. The tale goes that the child was inspired by an angel to gather weeds from the roadside and place them in front of the church altar. Crimson "blossoms" sprouted from the weeds and became beautiful poinsettias.

Because of it's flame leaf, the Poinsttia is sometimes called the Christmas star.

It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year

victim of older sister

Doggie

my little mitch was given this stuffed animal from some friends when he was a baby. i have always kept it in his bed and he has become quite attatched. when he gets his doggie in his hands he has to bite it's nose and smother it with kisses. after his public display of affection he proceeds to have a high pitched conversation that only he and his doggie can understand. doggie seems to always make everything better.

Sweet Little Family

While my brother and his family were in town, we were able to squeeze in a little photo session! Here are a few of my favorites.

On Halloween NIght

We celebrated a fabulous Halloween this year. My brother and sister-in-law came to town  for the holiday with their little girls. I just love having family come and stay and it is always so much fun for the kids. It was perfect that the kids were out of school on Friday. It made it so I didn't feel so rushed to get the kids fed, in costumes and on their way. We had chili and scones for dinner which will be a tradition for us - it tasted so yummy. We couldn't have asked for better weather. It was so nice to be able to trick-or-treat without bundling everyone up. I love this time of year!

Doug and I both got to walk around with the kids this year. It is so fun to watch the little one's run from house to house. As Nate was running to one of the houses, I heard him yell, "this is the best night ever" he is definitely a holiday boy. He managed to come home with the heaviest bag of all. Abbie decided that she is getting a little old for trick-or-treating. She thinks this may be her last year. I guess we'll have to wait and see, she does make a great looking witch!

Prison Break

Slow and Steady finishes the race!! On Saturday I ran the Prison Break Half Marathon that started and ended at the prison. Before I left for the race in the morning I found this sweet note under my iPod. I love this girl!

This group is what kept me going!! I couldn't wait to see these faces at the finish line. This definitely was the greatest prize. I am a lucky Mom.

My Man

i am married to the most incredible man. i have yet to find something he can't do.  he has had to do hard things this year. i have watched as he has worked late nights and sometimes through the night. i have seen him by the bedside on his knees humbly seeking. I have seen the concern on his face and in his eyes. i am seeing him change into something wiser and stronger. i feel the the love in his words and actions.  i learn from him everyday. i am truly blessed.

Scouting it Out.

I have a photo shoot tomorrow morning, so the boys and I were testing out a location. I liked how these turned out except for the fact that I was shooting at ISO 800 . . .  I'm always forgetting something!!! At least it happened today and not tomorrow!

This is why I post more of Nate... he's home during the day, and he cooperates:)

Happy Birthday Grace

Washington DC

I was able to take a trip with Doug to DC last week for the Auto Auction Convention. Business for Doug, a break for me. We had a great time, and I was able to have a couple relaxing days. I missed my kids and am glad to be home. Here are a few shots from the trip.

Washington Monument

My favorite of all was the Lincoln Memorial. I have seen pictures before, but I was amazed at the size - it was awesome to see in person.

In front of the Nation's Capitol

Navigating our way around through the Subway system.

Doug, always at work:)

Arlington National Cemetary

Me and my Sweetie.

Birthday Weekend!!

It was a fast and furious birthday weekend loaded with family and fun. Carter turned 7 and I turned 32!!! Our Birthday was actually on Sunday, but we celebrated on Saturday and Sunday. Saturday we loaded up the bikes and headed into Boise to ride on the Green Belt, something I have been wanting to do sense we have been here. It was a beautiful day and a promising activity until two of the kids rode their bikes off the trail through thorns and ended up with flat tires right off the bat! We spent the next hour at a park nearby and enjoyed the awesome fall day. We came home to enjoy a birthday feast, Carter's choice. . . chicken pillows with rice and corn and Dirt cake for dessert. I headed out for Women's Conference which was fabulous although I was missing my Mom. We ended the day with a fire pit and smores - a family favorite.

Carter had a "Bronco" birthday, and was a darling Birthday Boy. Happy 7th!

Sunday, Doug invited some friends over and prepared a fabulous dinner of breakfast foods. We had Crepes with Strawberries and Cream, waffles, eggs, side pork, homemade syrup, fruit and juice. Everything tasted so great.  My sweet kids showered me with gifts they purchased from the neighborhood yard sales. . . definite treasures and such thoughtful gifts. I love sharing a  birthday with my boy - it has been another great year!

Out my front window

Someday I am really going to miss the the  small, simple things of little people in my home.  I love watching my kids play, using their imaginations when they are all alone on a quiet afternoon. This is what I saw today when the house got quiet and I was looking for Nate.

Nothing in the world is better than being a Mom. I am so blessed to be living my dream.

How Dear to God Are Little Children

To earthly parents God sends children

To guide and teach, protect and love.

Oh, let us keep the sacred trust,

That he has placed with each of us

And help to guide them back to  God above.

-Children's Song Book pg. 180