Uncle Michael

Here is a picture of Uncle Michael and sweet baby Q. Michael managed to make himself scarce for many of the pictures this year, but his presence was large. He played countless games of Halo, spent hours making play dough creations with the little boys, cuddled with Jedi, and entertained Quinn. He also bravely tackled Zion's early morning bout with the stomach flu without even summoning help! We know Michael will make a great daddy someday, but for now, we are so lucky that we have him as our uncle.

Christmas Bounty

Presents, presents everywhere...just like when we were kids. And the new stocking tradition is very cool, although NEXT year Aunty Critter gets to fill the stockings. Santa Beccar gave Zen a lollipop as big as his head--now he wants one anytime he sees one in a store (NO!). Hmmmm, I notice that Jake didn't get one of those :-)

Cuzzins'

It was so fun to see the cousins get together over Christmas! Zen and Jake enjoyed some very fun bath time, swimming at the local indoor pool, hikes and adventures with their mommies, and having a blast on the Ozark trail of Christmas lights. Zen taught Jake the finer points of wrestling, and some of Jake's vocabulary must have rubbed off on Zen because he has been talking up a storm since our return! Zion was there to engage or ignore the younger ones at his whim; it was fun to see both of my boys try to get Quinn to laugh and smile.

How much do we love Grandma Pam????

Mom, you always make the holidays special, filling your house with toys and joys for the little ones, making us all comfortable in your home, and baking our favorite treats. Even though you don't see your grandkids every day, they are going to grow up with indelible memories of your love and affection. I feel blessed to be one of the few people I know who looks forward to going home for the holidays...you are an amazing woman, an incredible mom, and a role model to all of us. We love you so much!

The Oldest Generation

It is always so special to have another Christmas blessed with the presence of Great-Grandma and Jasper. They have really slowed down as Jasper approaches 95 and grandma not far behind, but they love watching the little ones and enjoying meals, visits to mom's house and grandma's daily game of bingo. Jedi fulfilled her duties as therapy dog with a few visits to the assisted living facility, delighting Jasper and a few other residents.