Happy New Year 2014!

"Be at war with your vices...

At peace with your neighbors...

And let every New Year find you a better man."
                                                                                          -Benjamin Franklin

50th Wedding Anniversary Party

While Trenton and I were driving home on the most boring stretch of highway in Nebraska last November, it occurred to me that my parents' 50th wedding anniversary was coming up in December.  My siblings and I had originally planned on putting the money together to send them on a cruise, but with my Dad's health lately, it wasn't looking good.  Instead, we decided to put together a reception for them and all their friends.  We worked tirelessly to pull the party together the Friday after Christmas (which wasn't easy with all the holiday stress, difficulty traveling, post-Christmas budgetary restraints, and all the illnesses that were floating around).  It all came together beautifully, though.  The best part was that the entire family was finally together.  Heather and Tim were here from Kansas, and Bill's family got a flight from Utah and surprised my parents at their party. 

Of course, my absolute favorite aspect of the entire week/weekend was how much time I got to spend with Heather in preparing for the party.  We never get to just wander up and down the isles of Target and talk like we have nowhere to be.  I miss that so much.

Considering that the party was held the Friday the week of Christmas, we had a pretty good turnout.  We had the place dimly lit with twinkly, romantic lights.  It was beautiful.  Bill and Lori flew out and surprised mom and dad.  They were so happy to have their entire family there.  We put together some yummy treats, had a slide show of pictures, a video, and a fun musical number by Christy and kids.  My parents finished the evening off by sharing a dance to their favorite song, "Moonlight in Vermont."  So dreamy and romantic.  We hope you enjoy your Golden Year you two!  We love you forever and always.  You are the greatest parents anyone could ask for.

The day after the party was spent enjoying the last few moments we all had together.  We had pizza and went swimming at Bill's hotel and then the girls did a little shopping before dinner. 

I can't wait until we can all be together again!  I wish these times didn't have to end.  Thank you Heather and Tim, and Bill and Lori for making the necessary sacrifices to be with us this Holiday season. 

Christmas Day 2013

We couldn't have asked for a happier, more relaxing Christmas.  The kids slept in until about 9 and then woke us by jumping in our bed and squeezing in-between us.  I love when there isn't this crazy rush to get downstairs to open presents, and I am grateful that my 6, 4, and almost 2 year old babies were patient enough to snuggle under the covers with us while we talked about the reason for the season.  Finally, the anticipation became more than any of us could handle and we headed downstairs to see what Santa brought.

All Emma asked Santa for was a new shopping cart that wouldn't fall apart!  She was surprised with a very sweet and sturdy cart.  All Ben asked for was a bow and arrow.  Judging by his expression, I'm guessing it never crossed his mind that he'd actually get one.  His excitement was classic.

My favorite gifts were those that my babies sweetly made for me.  I love how they not only colored pictures for me, but they wrapped them and decorated the boxes too!  They were giddy watching me open their gifts.  I'll never forget that.

Once we finished opening presents as a family, Trenton and I put Lyla down for a nap, and let the kids play while we took a heavenly 3 hour nap, leaving us perfectly rested for Christmas dinner with my family. 
We are so grateful to each and every friend and family member that made this holiday such a memorable one.  Thank you for your time, your warm wishes, your generosity, and especially your love.  We send it all back to you!