There is no mistaking that Ellie is all GIRL. She wanted a "pinkie pie" my little pony cake. While letting her look at the store
for some birthday ideas she fell in love with the "beautiful" bike and wouldn't let go of the princess dress. I
hope that she will always be this easy to please!! While enjoying her cake and ice cream she couldn't
decide if a fork or spoon was better, so she used both...then decided it was easier just to lick it off the plate.
I found the perfect gift for Hudson. It is dinosaur bones buried in plaster of Paris that after you dig them all out and wash them
up make a skeleton. He is working on getting them all for his "museum" in his room. He was nice enough
to let the other kids help. Hudson found out that the safety goggles are a good idea after a few incidents. Ellie found that her safety glasses stayed on better upside down. .jpg)
Hudson has made it to 100 AR points this year. His "prize" is to walk around the school with the panther mascot while everyone comes out of their classes and cheers, claps, and gives high-fives. What an exciting day.
While I was busy with Ellie in the tub, Hudson decided to create us some company. Soon Chevy got in on the act and here are the new friends they made. I wish that they would do more stuff like this. I get so tired of them always wanting to play video games, the computer or watch TV. Here is to downtime!!
It boggles the mind how much life can slow down after the holidays. I am not sure who thought to cram it all together in two months like that, but I am sure it was a man...HAPPY NEW YEAR.jpg)
Christmas has come and gone. It, as usual, was fantastic for all of the family. I do not know why I have to worry and over prepare and constantly count and everything else I do to work myself up. I guess it is just feeling like you
want it to be "perfect." 
Ellie's favorite gift was a close tie between her new baby and her dream kitchen. Both of the boys agree that their B.B. guns were the highlight. I am glad to be sleeping again and the kids have new things to entertain them for the next week off of school..jpg)
Every time Mitch pulls the boys behind the Ranger I want to say the "You might be a redneck" quote. It may look funny, but it sure is fun. 
I had to opt out this year as I told the boys, the baby 
probably would not like me getting thrown off the sled and smashing it. We are waiting for more snow to enjoy the big hills at my dad's farm, but until then...