Build a Bear with Grammy

My Mom has a fun tradition with her grandchildren . . . on their 5th birthday she takes them to Build a Bear Workshop. Nate's 5th birthday kind of snuck up on all of us, but it worked out nicely for him to be able to have a date with Grammy while we were in town for the New Year. Thanks Mom for being such a fun Grammy and building these sweet memories for the kids. 

A Golden Birthday!

Nate turned 5 on the 5th, which makes him the Golden Birthday Boy!  His birthday dinner choice was spaghetti with french bread and dirt cake to celebrate ( a popular desert choice around here).  It was another year for pirate gear . . . he makes an adorable pirate:)

A Favorite of the Season

I love getting the mail in December. It is so fun to see how families have grown and connect in a small way with friends made over the years. My door is the last of the Christmas decor to be put away . . . maybe by March:)

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.