Let it Snow!

Olivia liked the idea of snow much more than the actual stuff!

We could not find Eli's coat, and he had no boots, so he borrowed Anna Grace's.

I am sure that he will love looking back and seeing pictures of himself in pink boots!

"Snow is cold Mommy!"

Bailey loved making snow angels with her Daddy!

Mamaw (Mark's mom) was thoughtful enough to schedule over six inches of snow to cover her area just in time for our visit to her house! The children headed out to play as soon as we arrived at her place on December 20. Isaac and Bailey were the biggest snow enthusiasts, spending hours playing in it over the next three days. They especially loved the times that their Daddy joined them! Olivia enjoyed it initially, and then spent most of her time inside. Anna Grace ventured out once, and then decided it was "too freezing", and that was enough for her. Eli liked it in short spurts, and then toddled for the door. I think that I spent more time getting the younger three ready to go out in the snow than they spent actually playing in it. Despite the mixed reviews from our children, I am really thankful for the snow. It was beautiful, and snow right before Christmas really helps add to the excitement!

Congratulations Bo and Lindley!

One of the most exciting moments of our Christmas season, was when my brother Bo (Bob to most of the world) asked his precious girlfriend Lindley to marry him! He asked her in front of all of us on Christmas Eve while we were finishing up opening presents. He was a bit sneaky -- he hid the ring in an empty gun case. She was very surprised and very happy! We look forward to officially welcoming her to the family sometime soon! Congratulations Bo and Lindley!

Home Again!

Five VERY tired children (and way too much stuff) on our way home!

We travelled home from East Tennessee yesterday, following a visit with our family. We spent lots of time visiting, eating, taking pictures, chasing Eli, and just spending time with people we love. It was truly a blessing! I am going to write about some of the highlights of the last month or so over the next few days, but for now I am enjoying the prospect of getting back to "normal". The time from Thanksgiving to Christmas was filled with special family traditions, parties with friends, yummy holiday eating, lots of presents and good times with family and friends. I cherish that time, but by the end of December, I crave normalcy. I am ready to get back to our routine. I am ready to take down the decorations, and put away the presents. I am even ready to eat healthy for a while! I love the Christmas season, but I love starting a new year too!