Ice Storms and No Power

My parents made it out just in time.  Here is what it looks like when it snows and then rains and then freezes:

 pretty yes, but it also wreaks havoc on the power lines.  Apparently when the power is out, drawing on your face is always a good option...

 And after almost 24 hours without power, we ventured into Ferndale for donuts.  Donuts make us happy.  And it's warmer too.

 Yesterday, hanging out in the driveway with my sleepy guy while the family collects things for our sleepover at Gpa and Nana's house.  So grateful for them and that their house has power!

 sigh...

 Watching Planet Earth with Grandpa on New Year's Eve.  Not exactly how I thought we'd end the year.  Though I have to admit, staying at Todd's parent's house has been quite refreshing.  The kids almost think it's vacation.

So grateful for Todd's parents.  But honestly, I'm kind of glad 2017 is over.  It's been a difficult year for me.  Here's to 2018!  I hope it's a good one!

Happy New Year!

Fun Continues and the Aftermath

 Boys and their tracks

 family mariokart

yep, we've been having a little too much fun...time to reclaim the house!!

Bye bye Mimi and Bapa.  We will miss you and are SO GLAD you came!

Christmas

Aw yes, another magical and perfect Christmas for the record books.  Ok, it wasn't perfect probably, but I'll remember it that way!  Having Bapa and Mimi there sure made it fun.

 raspberry turnovers were a pleasant delightful surprise when no cherry ones could be found

 And who wouldn't want sneakers with giant satin bows?!  Seriously the cutest!

 Ok, he's cuter.

Such a great day hanging out and playing and feeling happy and doing anything and nothing.  Christmas is such a beautiful gift.  Joy and blessings!

Christmas Eve

Church was beautiful and the day was just wonderful and I have the cutest little shepherd

 All ready to act out Luke 2

 wisemen

 Mary and Joseph

 He was sore afraid (and his sheep was too!) teehee

 Christmas Eve present time

 Matching pjs.  I wonder how many more years I'll be able to get away with this...

 Cooper is extra excited!

 Then we sang carols.  My favorite!

 Merry Merry Christmas!!

Cookies and Candy

Since we haven't had much sugar this month, we thought it was time to make and decorate sugar cookies and candy houses!  

 So much fun!

and cute too!  

Eagle Adventuring

I had a really enjoyable time watching the bald eagles.  Dozens.  Amazing really.  And with some of the best people that exist!

Temple Trip

Ethan's first trip to the temple was more beautiful than I could have imagined.  The details are in my journal, but a few things I'll put here.  The power was tangible and we were wrapped in God's love.  

 Ethan said after the experience, that he wanted to go the next day and the next.  That's the Spirit you feel in the temple and I'm so glad he felt that!

 What a perfect way to welcome Christmas!

 I feel so full.

 I am so grateful for my people!

For my son, and for the temple.