Precious moments, sweet expressions

I'm not sure why children learn to high five at such an early age, but even Brenna had fun playing it with grandpa.











Ethan's first experience with the miracle of snow. As we drove to and from the beach there was snow along side the road. I wanted so badly to stop and watch him experience being able to touch it, or play a little, however time didn't permit. Tuesday however while I was enjoying some one on one time with JoAnna it started to snow, and didn't stop for quite awhile, which made it extra special for a first time experience to not only play in it, but to actually be able to watch the beautiful white falling from the sky. Chelsea was able to capture this picture so we could all enjoy with Ethan.

One of these days we will have all of our sweet grandchildren in one place to experience life together. This was Ethan and Brennalyn first time meeting, and though he wasn't as excited to see her as he was Savannah in September, he was so gentle and cute knowing she was little. She was at least older than when he met Alexandra. at 1 1/2 months old. There was very little interest with her other than an occational wanting to hold her. I think one of the cutest times was when he wanted to swaddle Brenna in a large blanket, or as we saw it was to roll her like a burrito. He would roll her up, then pull on the blanket to unroll her, and she would laugh out loud, which made us all laugh. It was the simple, precious moments that I will treasure forever.

family time at the beach

Lunch at Mo's





Carousel ride,

Seaside Aquarium,

It may have only been a couple of days, but it was very nice to be together playing games, watching movies, journal writing, reading, sitting in the hot tub, swimming, playing pool, Lots of kissing, or walking the board walk along the beach. Even with it being in December the sun was out bright and beautiful and the sunsets were as usual amazing. Truly a bit of Heaven is what I experienced just watching everyone interact. I try to soak in as much as possible to carry me until we are together again.
I'm sure Heavenly Father looks down on us much of the time and feels that joy as he watches us make good choices, or show love and kindness to one another.

Christmas PJ's

I must admit it is getting more and more difficult to carry out this tradition of matching Christmas Pajamas since the family is getting larger and larger.
I think it is more meaningful to me than anyone else which makes it difficult for me to dissolve the tradition. I guess this is my way of feeling still connected as a family even though we are all living so far from one another. The hardest part of being a mother is letting go in many aspects of life.
I am so grateful for each of our children, and feel very blessed for the companions they have chosen to spend the eternities with. That also goes for JoAnna and Zack. He has been a big part of JoAnna's life for 5 years, so the news of an engagement was no big surprise, but a welcomed announcement.

Christmas Eve

We tend to carry out traditions during the holidays, one of which is to go to Mom DeRoest's on Christmas eve to spend it with the clan. This year was no different for Tony and I having dinner with all, then playing the pass along Christmas gift game. Everyone brought a simple gift that could be for a male or female, then we drew numbers to find out the order of who picks first. It was allot of fun. Even the dinner was kept simple with each bringing soup to share. I think it was nice to simplify all the stress, and more fully enjoy the time we have together. Rickie was the last to get his gift, so he could choose from any of the gifts. He chose the unopened package, and was thrilled to get a snuggie. I have never seen anyone so excited to receive such a gift. That was a great way to close the game, and the evening.

JoAnna was still in Arizona spending the Eve with the Donkin family, as well as starting a new memory, or traditions to come.
Zack Donkin asked JoAnna to marry him, and of course she said "Yes" ! So many decisions to make, as well as preparations in the 3 1/2 month time to work with. I know she has had allot of the preliminary decisions already done, but its amazing how many other decisions are still needed to make. Fun times lie ahead.
They have chosen to be married in the Portland Oregon Temple Friday April 16th 2010, with a reception following that evening, so please mark your calendars to come celebrate with us.

Santa Claus is coming to town

With Brenna and Ethan here in town we decided they both needed to make a trip to the North Pole to see Santa Claus. It just so happened it was both of their first time, so I wondered how they would react. As it worked out neither had a problem, though they showed very little emotion. Its always a fun time however, or fun memories anyway, especially with the adults.

While we were making the trip here in Portland, Naomi & Michael made the trip with Savannah & Lexi from Texas. Savannah had a hard time last year, and though she isn't crying this time, it really doesn't look like she is to excited to see the bearded guy again.