Small Miracles

This last week was a trying week for me for different reasons, so anything positive was a blessing.  For a few months we've been trying to potty train Benjamin.  Now that Benjamin is 3 we're hoping that it will be easier than with the last two.  He's got the peeing down pretty but pooping is another story.  I had told him to go to the bathroom the other day as I knew it had been a while since he had gone.  I noticed after a few minutes that it was quiet in the bathroom so thought I'd better check.  My little boy was actually sitting on the toilet going poop!  Now I know this isn't the best of stories, but I know for most moms this is a small miracle!  At least it was for me.

Scooter Fun

Our kids just love to ride their scooters.  Ethan and Alys got one for Christmas and Benjamin got one for his birthday.  It was hard at the time because we had snow on the ground.  Now that we currently don't have any they try to take every opportunity they can to ride them.  It doesn't even matter that it's only 32 degrees outside, they'll still ride them.

Bust a Move!

Sometimes kids are just so entertaining.  I love watching and listening to them as they play.  The other day I turned on some music in the house and found some kids music that they enjoy.  The group is called Imagination Movers, so if you'll just imagine...I caught my children trying to bust a move.  It was great for me, but maybe not so much for them in about 10-15 years!

Happy 3rd Birthday Benjamin!

January 13 was Benjamin's 3rd birthday.  I can't believe our baby is 3!  He's such a loveable kid.  He loves hugs, cars, Rocket (Little Einsteins), going to grandma and grandpa's house and playing with his brother and sister.  Here's a few pics from his party.  Happy Birthday Benjamin, we love you!

A New Year

For New Year's Eve we went up to Cascade to celebrate with family.  There was plenty of snow to enjoy and lots of good company.  We watched movies, built snowmen, sled down the hills and had some good food.  It was fun to just relax and get away.  It's hard to believe that another year has already gone by!  I look forward to a good year in 2009.  Here's a few pictures from our adventures for New Years.

The Best Gifts

As I thought about the year and Christmas I couldn't help but think about the many wonderful things that I have been blessed with over the year.  While reflecting on some of what I would consider 'the best gifts' a few came to mind.  First and foremost...the gift of family.  I am so grateful to be near my family again and be able to spend time with them.  Best of all, my own family.  While each of my children are unique and at times drive me crazy I love them so much.  I enjoy watching them grow and learn and especially the peaceful happy moments when they are happily playing together.  I'm thankful for Woody and all that he does for me and our children.  Another gift is the gift of good health.  We've all been pretty healthy this year and as for myself I was given the gift of a personal trainer for my birthday from my dear husband.  I found a great gal from church, who is also a personal trainer.  I've been working with her since October and am excited to say that as of the end of year I have lost 22lbs.  I have a ways to go to reach my goal, but I'm grateful to have made it this far.  I'm doing it the old fashioned way, eating healthy and exercising, but it's worth it.  Last, but not least...I'm grateful for my friends.  I miss my friends in Texas and wish I could just pop in and say hello.  I think of you often.  I'm also thankful for those that I have met thus far in Idaho.  Also, I could not finish this post without saying how thankful I am for the gospel and knowing that I am a child of God.  I hope that you all have had a wonderful year and have received many wonderful gifts.

Merry Christmas!

Well, as we snuggled into bed by the skin of our teeth before Santa came; he did visit our house!  The kids were so excited and fortunately weren't up at the crack of dawn.  I'm sure as they get a little older they will.  Even little Ben came back upstairs and started removing my bed covers and said, "Come on, Mom."  It was so fun to see how excited they were and we just enjoyed a fairly quiet Christmas with the kids enjoying their gifts.  What a wonderful time of year to just enjoy family!  Here are a few photos from the day and holiday season.