Friday, January 15, 2010

So Much for the Soul to Love...


Suzie gave me a cookbook for Christmas this year.
I love it.
Imagine a book that radiates comfort, warmth and darn tasty recipes.
I thankfully now have it.
For anyone who loves cooking for your family and friends...
The Pioneer Woman will captivate your heart the second you open her book.
Oh and try the brisket.
It's absolutely amazing.

Tuesday, January 5, 2010

The Holiday Season

What a wonderfully warm and cozy holiday season we had. Although my goal was a little less than Chevy Chase's in his infamous Christmas movie, I still wanted a fun old fashioned Christmas we could all remember. Between Jeff's finals and all the other activities we had going on, we managed to make some terrific memories.

What a better gift could there be in December than snow? None for these 2 litle guys.



My charming husband and wonderful best friend, Tonya, gave me a terrific 30th birthday party. We had such a great turnout with all of our dearest family and friends. I felt a little silly opening presents...but as Josalyn said "You only turn 30 once...you better enjoy it!" After opening presents I think I'll be scheduling another 30th party for next year. You guys are the best!



We hit my parents for Christmas this year. Mom and Dad threw a great Christmas Eve get together with Grandpa and Grandma Jones and the Tuckers. The next morning, the upstairs crew were ready to get rockin'. It's a tradition in our home to wait at the top of the stairs until camera's are put into place.



So, Will has been asking for a Lightning Mcqueen bike from Santa for the past several months. Thank goodness the Santa at the mall is real and came through on the little guys' request. Thank you Santa! His little brother got a top of the line mower to help dad in the summer time. I think he might cut more grass than Jeff with that bad boy!




The night before Christmas Eve Jor and I hit KMart for some last minute stocking stuffers. We saw these slippers for Ma and couldn't resist. haha They still crack me up. I think they match her Christmas sweater quite nicely.



So, Jor and I also were fortunate to pick up this outfit for him to wear. Aren't brother's the funnest? (It even has bells on the bottom that jingled as he walked!)



Jeff really came through this year. He got me the present I've been asking for since we've been married. (Yes I did switch it for another model, but you still get an "A" for the thought sweetie!)



No, this wasn't Jeff's main gift, but I'm betting it was his favorite. (Well that or the Wild Mustang cologne he got..Aaaarrrrrr.)He just had to get dart guns for him and Will. Boys will be boys.



After a long and wonderful Christmas day, Grant looked just about how I felt. We were ready to head on down to Holden for part 2. We were met with a beautiful dinner, such fun presents, and sweet grandparents ready to take us in. Isn't Holden a sight?




One of my favorite memories this season was with a newer friend, Rachel. We let our little ones build a snowman and then Rachel had us in for hot cocoa and homemade ice cream made out of snow! It actually tasted so good! That afternoon made me remember that the best memories are made from the simplest ingredients. Yes, you've reached the end of this novel...finally. However, we truly hope your holiday season was as sweet as ours was.