Our first snowman...

Gracie is my little snow bird. She has always loved the snow. She is the first one to want to build a snowman, make snow angels, go for sled rides. She and I are kindred souls in this.

Last week we had our first snowfall. Gracie could not wait to get outside and play. We borrowed Grandma's sled (yes, I still have it). Loaded it up with Christmas goodies, and took a starlit ride around the neighborhood delivering treats. We didn't get our snowman made, we are waiting for the next big snowfall to do so. We did stop and plop down in the middle of a neighbors untouched driveway to make snow angels. I don't often get to have one on one time with any of my children, so this felt especially sweet to me. I felt young and free. In case you're wonderng, my back is still hurting and the blister on my ankle is taking forever to heal. It was worth it!!!

quirks

Rules: Link to the person that tagged you; Amy
Share 6 non-important things/habits/quirks about yourself.Tag 6 random people at the end of your post by linking to their blogs.Let each person know that they've been tagged by leaving a comment on their blog or email.Let your tagged peeps know once your entry is up.Okay, here are my 6 non-important quirks:

1. I do a paper route, and I love it. Weird I know, but I love the time alone. I spend the time praying, listening to church tapes, talk radio, etc. I feel empowered, and blessed to be able to help my family financially.

2. I don't like being told I have to do something. If I feel pressured to be anywhere, I suddenly don't want to go. I am like a little child, "don't make me"!! If you want me to show up somewhere, act like you don't care if I am there or not.

3. I get the chills when I hear fire trucks, ambulances, police cars. I always have to say a quick prayer that everyone I love will be safe and protected and is not hurt.

4. Secretly I love when Gracie wants to listen to the chipmunks Christmas songs over and over and over. First, I like the chipmunks. Second, Gracie tries to sing like a chipmunk and it cracks me up every time.

5. My husband still gives me the shivers. Enough said

6. I love diet vanilla coke. My husband has a love hate relationship with caffeine, so I try not to drink it out of deference to him and the fact that he shouldn't drink it. I sneak it. I love it and crave it.

1. Brandon
2. Kim
3. Nakel
4. Amanda
5. Mom

Droolie bug

When I think of this year what will I remember? Will I remember this as a hard year? Will 2008 be remembered for those we have loved and lost? Grandma great, Flora? Will Chris lose his job this year, will the election change so significantly our lives?

So many things have happened.I hope I remember this year for what is truly important. The biggest and best thing that happened is our little Sammers. I love this picture of him. It makes me want to pick him up, wipe the ever present drool from his mouth (of course), and squeeze him tightly.

We are blessed.

5 year olds can do anything...

This is Gracie's new Mantra. When asked to do something she replies, "Of course, five year olds can do anything." She finds her shoes herself, zips her own coat, ties...things.

Clearly she feels that 5 years old is very much grown up. On her birthday I asked her to do something and she replied, "Well, am I five yet?"

When I affirmed that she was, she immediately replied that she could do it. Wow, Why couldn't she have turned 5 a few years ago?

We love you Gracie girl.