My house of boys...

All the parenting books out there just don't prepare a mom who lives in a house full of boys (two teenagers and a husband) for things like this! I remember when the boys were little and how they loved loved loved to wrestle with Derek and each other - until someone got hurt, of course (usually Dalton)! And I knew in my head that loving this activity so much was common for boys - a bonding experience similar to that of bear cubs, however, it was definitely not a favorite activity of mine. Because you know, someone always ended up hurt and us moms, desire two things most of all: peace and harmony! What I wasn't prepared for is the fact that boys continue to love love love this activity as they grow. Now when these wrestling matches occur between the boys and Derek, they are much more intense, usually leaving Derek completely out of breath. :) It's so interesting to me how they all view this as FUN - each of them smiling and laughing - even though they are out of breath and yes, someone gets hurt!

So, to be consistent with the pattern of his youth, look at Dalton's black eye that he received from Derek's foot in this week's past match... Yep, Dalton is very proud of his infliction and is wearing it beautifully! May God continue to give me strength and understanding as I continue this journey of living in this house of boys! I feel truly blessed!

Snow? What snow?...

And just like that it's gone! No 6-12 inches here...bummer! However, it is a nice break from all that rain...Hope you're enjoying a Sunny Saturday like we are! :)

Let it Snow...

30 minutes later...**read below post if you don't know what I'm talking about :)It's breathtakingly beautiful! :)
Weather reports say we can expect 6-12 inches throughout tonight...we'll see!

Freezing Friday...

It's been raining and snowing on and off all week BUT now it is sticking! And it's only 3:00...stay tuned! :)

And so it begins...

Stage I credential classes...I have mixed emotions - excited and terrified!! Do I look excited? Here is my "I can do this!"...optimistic...gleeful look! :)
P.A.W. = prayers are welcomed! :)

Christmas Synopsis...

It's hard to believe that the Christmas Season is over!! This year really flew by and I, honestly was a little dazed by it all! This season seemed extraordinarily busy - fun busy....but busy. From final exams to making TONS of jam, to preparing for parties (we had the youth group party at our home and I did not take ONE picture - hence, the dazed part!), to shopping and sewing and wrapping...whew!

• Then it was off to Bakersfield on Christmas Day - we had a lovely visit with the Sampley, Parker, and Onaindia clan (again, not ONE picture!)...ugh, I'm pretty disappointed with myself! We had a great time with my parents and Grandma Nonie and a welcomed casual, delicious dinner! :) We spent the night in Bakersfield this year since we were celebrating with the Kruzners at Angela's home in Clovis the next day.

We left after breakfast and had a great time with the Kruzner and Munoz clan (need I say it again?...not ONE picture!) Geez, what's wrong with me? Dazed, I tell you!

• After we got home, unpacked, took a few loonnngggg naps, I reflected upon my dazed state...the best way I can describe it is, I felt like a generator always going, going, going, then someone abruptly pulls the plug! Unfortunately, someone pulled the plug too early and I started to shut down during the celebrations which resulted in NO pictures!!

Okay, I think you get the idea and I'll stop rambling...bottom line, I'm extremely disappointed in my lack of pictures but I'll do better next year!

• The only pictures I took documented the special quilt my mom made for Dalton. This quilt has been years in the making and she was determined to have it completed for Christmas - it truly is beautiful! Job well done, Mom!!

My mom first made Dillon his quilt 6 years ago (I cannot believe how young Dillon looks...my goodness, time is fleeting!):

And here is Dalton with his amazing quilt: At last some relaxation...Dalton snuggling with his new quilt:

And Dillon in the recliner with the remote, of course!:

Despite the busy schedule it was a tremendous blessing being with family and celebrating the best gift of all, Jesus!