Happpy New Year 2012!

Happy New Year!!

Chinese Food for dinner

Let the party begin!

My handsome little man

What a pretty girl!!

Bella Mouse

So cute!

Cousins

Big hug!!

Party girls

I got you, babe

A new year is ahead, lots to look forward to and thank the Lord for. 2011 was a challenge, but we saw how God was there and trust was the only way to go. The kids are all growing up soooo fast, we will be looking for ways to keep things simple and spend lots of family time together, but really are excited for them to spread their wings.

My Sweet Mom

Grandma Margie and her cuties 9/2010

My mom unexpectedly passed away November 21st, 2011. We know she is dancing and running in heaven, seeing our Savior and enjoying the beauty promised in God's word about eternity. The days ahead will be saddened with her not being a part of life here on earth, but we take comfort in knowing she is waiting for us in our heavenly home.  

Fall 2011

It is fall until Dec. 20th, though it has been really cold here. Not the usual rain, but chilly temps in the 30's and 40's. We have been busy with school-Em started going to EvCC for 11th grade. Quite a change in her groove, but she found her way and is doing outstanding. The girlies are working hard in their first year of High School, Co-op was a lot of fun for them. Andy is enjoying the "hard work" of 1st grade.

Basting the Turkey

Visiting GG Ruth

Em is off to college

Michael Sweating for a Vet

A little cake fun!

Zumba Friends

We got to enjoy a wonderful family vacation in CA this October. The beach was incredible, I'll remember those sunny days when the grey days of winter hit here. Of course we hit Disneyland-perfect! We visited family and friends, such a blessing to see these sweet people.

Everyone is working hard-I'm busy with kiddos and teaching Zumba, the girlies and boy are getting that learnin' done, and Michael is always working on a great sales idea. The end of the year is rapidly coming upon us,  I am looking forward to what is in the New Year, my trust is in the Lord for each new day.

WA Summer

Old Robe Trail

Evergreen State Fair Piggy Races

Chainsaw Furniture

Annabelle's Entry

Emily's Digital Art Entry

Me, Daddy, and Andy

Andy and Johnny

Papa and his boys

Making a new friend



We are enjoying the summer, at last! Sunshine and clear skies. Andy and I took a trip to see Grandma and Papa. We all enjoyed a big day at the Evergreen State Fair. Emily won First Place in her category and a Chairman's Award. Annabelle won First Place in her category and Third in the overall Art Show!! I am a proud mama. The beautiful day called us outdoors today for a wonderful hike on the Old Robe Trail. We jumped creeks, shimmied over logs, and discovered a little piece of heaven.

Sad Farewells



Our last day, playing at Jetty Island

Sad girlies

All the Host Families and Students

It was a sad day, Akari went back home to Japan. 3 weeks went so fast, we really just got to know her. Akari is a sweet, smart, helpful girl who is very artistically talented. The girls had a lot in common, but also learned so much from each other.

Lovin' our Summer

At the theater waiting for Aladdin

Kitchen S'mores

At the park

So glad the sun is out here in the PNW, we are cramming in lots of summer fun.