Two Reasons....

...never to leave chocolate frosting on the kitchen counter.

My Little Cowboy's Birthday

I just barely uploaded Will's birthday pictures although it was a couple months ago now. It was such a fun day with our "sunshine."
All Will wanted for his birthday was new cowboy attire. He had grown out of his boots which made him quite frustrated when he went down to the farm. So everyone chipped in and got him all suited up for his big #4 b-day.



We went bowling for the first time and both little guys fell in love with the sport.



Even Granters was able to join in on the fun.



Cousin Elle drew him an awesome picture.



And fortunately...he got the soccer ball cake he was dreaming of.



It was one fun birthday.

Bend in the Road

What a beautifully stated poem.

Sometime’s we come to life’s crossroads
And view what we think is the end.
But God has a much wider vision
And He knows that it’s only a bend—
The road will go on and get smoother
And after we’ve stopped for a rest,
The path, that lies hidden beyond us
Is often the path that is best.
So rest and relax and grow stronger,
Let go and let God Share your load,
And have faith in a brighter tomorrow—
You’ve just come to a bend in the road.

Simply Overwhelming

I was washing the dishes and singing to myself when I heard the garage open. I wasn't expecting anyone, but was glad to see my husband step through the door. My joy soon turned to worry when I saw tears in his eyes. He simply said "Stay inside."
I continued about my morning chores until curiosity got the best of me. I tiptoed to Will & Grant's room and peered through the wood blinds. It was then I realized what was happening. There was Jeff unloading his Chevy truck as another employee watched over him. I ran outside and asked "Jeff, What is going on?" Again he asked me to go inside and said he'd be in shortly.
I sat in the kitchen silently crying as he walked through the door. Here was my strong and mighty husband with shoulders shaking and tears falling. He had lost his job.
If you know Jeff, you know how much he loves his work. He treated the company as if he owned it. When Jeff would dream, it would be about work. I believe that is exactly why it hurt so bad.
It's been a week since that day. Although losing a job is overwhelming, it is bleak in comparison to the outpouring of love we have received. Family has provided food, money, and even a car. We have received sweet phone calls and emails expressing concern. Although I'm shamed to admit it, I truly didn't have a clue how wonderful my family and friends really were. Losing our job has been a gift. God's love has been richly manifested and we are grateful. I have learned life changing characteristics that I want to carry with me always. Thank you for all of your examples to me. I stand in awe of all of you and your Christ like love you show. It is simply overwhelming.

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.

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.

For Hire

2 Light Hangers

*Are willing to decorate your tree, even if it's already been done.
*Promise not to make a peep so nobody will know what they are up to.
*Call quick, their schedule is filling up.