Zoo time with Daddy

When John has just school and no rotations, we like to get in as many fun things as we can. The things you let your kids do...when their is glass in front of them. I like the Girls at this distance much better. He was pretty brave to let them get on, I wouldn't have let them. When he wanted them off, I was scared to help. Usually Scott would get them off. Elizabeth, Micah and Noah-all children of unusually absentee fathers. Oh yeah, Deeken was there too. He is just so quiet you would hardly notice.

Tip-Toeing through the Tulips

So this has become one of our many traditions since we moved to Oregon. The Tulip Festival. Our little Cow-Boy...Riding the Range. Deeken was more intrested in playing with the Brown stuff(Dirt) then looking at mommy. Noah asked me to take this picture of him, I think he is pretty used to this tradition. Micah was not in any mood to take Pictures. She was cold and so unwilling to smile. She just wanted me to hold her. Brenley helping with Deeken. What am I going to do without her? I really like this picture of Moo. It was taken on the fly as she was running toward me just wanting me to hold her. I like the innocent look and the way her hair is in her face. I think she is so beautiful. Here is some good character pics of Noah. He can be such a Ham, espscially in front of a camera or a crowd of any size. It still looks like a decent day right? And then the Hail came. I like this picture of Micah too. I think that she just might be my artsy portrature girl. We were lucky to be by a tent that was selling some of the tulip bulbs, which is where I wanted to stay. Sierra, Micah, and Morgan were a little more adventurous. At least the hail put a smile on her face. It was pretty big hail! My three Beautiful kids. Not quite the way I wanted to get their picture at the tulip festival, but it works. (Micah was quite cold by the end, so her frown did come back.)

Apple Sauce w/ Cereal & Peaches

And so we come upon Deeken trying another new food. Applesauce w/ Cereal.... But wait, were not finished yet! Let's try some PEACHES! I think you might like these buddy. They are mom's favorite(in big people food). "Not so keen on this either mom." But wait Deeken, there is something your Daddy loves that we think you might like. and we have a WINNER!!!!!

Happy Anniversary Amy Noelle!

I hope that you enjoy this surprise, and for once when you open our blog you can be surprised by some new pictures and messages! I love this picture taken at the pumpkin patch during our first autumn in Oregon. In our eyes I see the adventure and faith that we had to muster as we embarked upon a new part of our lives, out away from our parents and family, relying on one another for all of our support and strength. I am so grateful that I married a strong woman who daily meets the challenges that are placed before her, and looks forward with faith. Here we sit on the railroad tracks of our lives with six years we've travelled together, and a wonderful journey ahead of us. We don't know what the future holds, or where we will be living in just over a year, but one thing I'm grateful for . . . I get to travel the path with you. I couldn't have asked for a more compatible (or prettier) travelling companion One thing that I've always loved about you is that you love me. I love that you will come and sit on my lap, even when there are other seats available. I love how you can talk to me for hours. I love how when you are near me, you hold my hand, or wrap your arm around me. You're my best friend. Wow, that hair cut looks really great on you! I have to admit that I've enjoyed the confidence that getting so many complimets on your haircut has given you. I have always liked your confidence in who you are, and what you stand for. You don't back down from what you believe. I love the time that we get to spend together, especially lately as it has been more sparse! It's great to have someone to be with, through the good times and the hard times. At times during the past six years our lives have been a wild ride! Three little monkeys have kept the craziness in our lives, even when other things have been calm. Thanks for always laughing our way through the craziness and reminding me to lighten up. When I'm the most stressed out you have the perfect way of bringing me back to what matters the most and reminding me of what is truly important. That's right, she's mine. Can't you see how happy I am on my face? I love to have your arms wrapped around me. It's the feeling of coming home. It' s an irreplacable feeling of knowing that you are safe, that you are loved, that you are wanted and accepted, and everything is going to be okay, as long as she keeps on holding on. This is the woman that I love. This is mommy to three little ones, the most important person in their lives. This is my best friend, my companion, my support and my strength. I love you Amy Noelle. It's been six great years, and I'm looking forward to forever.