White Christmas (Eve)

Shaver was a beautiful winter wonderland! Snow fell on and off all day at my in-law's on Christmas Eve.

(Notice the new paint on the cabin- what a change from the light yellow and blue. I picked out the color scheme.)

The boys did a great job building "frosty". I jumped in and helped for the fun part- accessorizing!

Sledding has become a tradition on Christmas Eve- let's hope the weather keeps cooperating!

Sweet Newborn Pictures

I've been meaning to blog about these photos for awhile now. These pictures are so special to me- but what makes them really amazing is they were taken at the hospital by the hospital photographer. I know. Pick your jaw up off the ground- what a change from the usual baby "mug shot". This is new a service offered at Clovis Community. Big improvement. Huge. Almost makes me want to have another baby. Almost.

Pie? Check! Centerpieces? Check, Check!

Apple Pie with Vanilla and Lemon (When I wasn't looking Ben added some extra apple cut outs...nice, thanks Ben)

Flowers from Costco (and my yard!)

Now I need to stop blogging and go pack! Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!

Post-baby get-a-way

Eric and I have a tradition of getting away together with just our new baby when they are about 3 months old. After surviving the last few months of pregnancy and adjusting to the routine of a newborn- this was just what I needed. We had a great time, but even more importantly, I feel like I have a new energy and renewed vision for my life. I know that sounds pretty deep- but seriously it was that good of a vacation! I really think we all need a break now a then to clear out our heads and remind us how much we love what we do each day.

This is the view of Shell Beach from our room. We got to try out the road outside of Kettleman that my husband has been building for almost two years. Nice job babe! (But I'm so glad you are finally done!).

Amazing morning light, white sheets and plenty of time make for some great shots.

Thanks mom and dad for watching the boys to make this trip possible.

Thanksgiving Place Cards? Check!

We are spending the holiday at Shaver with Eric's family and I was put in charge of making place cards. Since we are not hosting thanksgiving like we have in years past- I actually had time for a fun project with the boys.

I painted their hands and "stamped" them onto a 6x6 square of card stock. Then I folded the bottom inch to make a base and cut them out. I added a beak and of course the names. Not exactly elegant- but the grandmas will love them!

I'm off to start my Apple pie with lemon and vanilla- wish me luck (I think Apple pies are intimidating!).

Sam's Birthday

I need to catch up on some posts about what has been going on this month. Sam turned four! How is this possible? Sam is growing up so much and becoming such a big helper! He runs for burp clothes for me- helps with laundry and even vacuums! Most of all it is exciting to see his heart growing tender to the things of God. I know God has great things for this little boy. I'm so blessed to be a part of the journey.
In other news- after blowing out candles, he was playing around and slipped on a toy and fell and hit the wall. Not only did he get a big knot on his forehead- he put a HOLE in my hallway wall. He seemed to be fine- (did I mention my first born also has a hard head?). I love this kid.

Don't drop her!

It only took us about 60 pictures to get this one-and poor Georgia looks like she is about to slip down to the concrete below! I'm giving up hope of getting a picture of all three children. Maybe our Christmas card will have three individual face shots?

You can't blame me for trying! (Sam is really great with her and didn't drop her by the way).