Christmas Day

We had a great time opening presents this year on Christmas Day! This was the first year that Bently and Keira really knew what they were doing and were really excited about what was going on! I had a great time making Bently's present comprised of a bunch of dress-up costumes. I also snuck a pink cape into the mix since I knew that if Bently was interested - Keira would be too! Keira got a shopping cart, which she loves to push her baby in. Dakota recieved two new suits and a bunch of other clothes. And, of course, I got Molly - who I love having around! But then Dakota spoiled me with a new weather station with lots of cool features. I secretly really love watching and tracking the weather - so this gift was really perfect! However, all this does not even compare to the abundant blessing of family that we have. Keira and Bently bring us more joy everyday than I can even begin to describe. I am so thankful for them in every way. Dakota, you are immeasurably special to me. I love all the little things you do to let me know that you are always there and that you always care. Our extended family is scattered far but please know that when we are not with you, you are on our minds always. We love you all very much and are so blessed to be part of your lives.

Christmas Eve

As tradition goes, we always act out the dear Nativity story on Christmas Eve. This year Bently and Keira played the part of "angel". Dakota and I were Mary and Joseph (which we hadn't been since Bently was born) and baby Jesus (our brnad new cousin Eli) was too mad to be part of the scene. Our nativity scene looks a little rowdy and scraggly but hey, we try! I love being with these people - you all make me smile just to look at these photos! This is a really cute shot of my Grandpa Randall (Bently and Keira's great grandpa) who is now in his 80's. He is playing with one of the kids' toys and I love the very childlike expression on his face! He is great! Spending some time with him was probably one of my favorite parts of Christmas this year.

Long Drive

On the Friday before Christmas we started our journey for the Holidays to Michigan! I always look forward to going to Michigan but I do get sick of the car very easily. Really, I am no better than our dear children. At one point in Illinois we stopped for gas and I whined about wanting a slusshy because I had heard too much whining in the backseat. Dakota got us the yummy treat but I don't know what I was dreaming about thinking that we wouldn't have to share it with our backseat passengers. The whining quickly turned to screaming and to appease the jealous cries I handed over the slushy. As you can see moods quickly changed - as did the state of cleanliness! But hey, for a good hour of happiness it was well worth it!

Welcome Home Molly!

She's back! Luckily a dear lady found our little dog in the street a few days after she ran away. She said that Molly was sitting in the street shivering in the cold so she took her home. I got a call from the police the next day asking me if we'd found our dog and when I said no the gentleman connected me to this sweet lady who had found Molly! I am so grateful that even though Molly didn't have any tags on - such a nice person would take the time to find it's owner. We are so glad to have her back!