New Years Hike to Steelhead Falls

 One of our favorite things to do as a family is to get out and enjoy the beauty of where we live.

 As I work on finishing our 2013 photo book I reflect on this past year.  This little man behind me I have wanted for years.  The most memorable event in 2013. 

 My older boys are growing up fast and I am extremely proud of them.  They are both incredibly smart and so full of adventure.  I love the conversations we share on these trails and I picture them doing the same with their kids someday.

 It just doesn't get better than this.

 I love being the one behind the lens to capture simple moments as these. 

 They adore their daddy and we cherish our time with him.  He works very hard so that I can be home with the boys.  I am thankful, every day, for this opportunity.

 It's incredible to think August turned 7 months old 2 days ago.  Time has flown by despite my endless efforts to stop it. 

 I can only stop it in my mind.  I take this picture in my head.  I stare and take in the feelings this brings to me.  It's beautiful.  I wish I could freeze it.

 On a funny note...

August had the chance to taste an orange. 

He chewed and sucked on it until it was gone.

 This is what GONE looks like.  And this is what life looks like sometimes.  It's not always waterfalls and picnics

But it's easy to find JOY and thankfulness in these beautiful blue eyes.

 It's been a great year but I'm looking forward to what 2014 brings.

 I pray for more moments like these.

 I pray for my boys to continue to grow into men. 

 I pray for their wives they will have some day.

 I pray for their safety, protection, and health.

 I pray for our marriage to continue to grow stronger as we navigate through parenthood.

 As we walked back to the car I though about how special this day was.  It was perfect.  I was thankful for a happy baby this entire adventure. (minus the orange incident) 

 And then THIS happened.  As we loaded up the car we were serenaded by these beautiful deer.  I've never seen anything like it.  They came right up to us. 

 They were playful, loving and so sweet. 

Happy New Year from our family to yours.  

PEGGY'S CHICKENS

 We had a great time out at our friend Peggy's feeding her chickens and collecting their eggs!

 Being out at her property is such a gift.

 Relaxing in the hammock.

 Brotherly love

 Running in the field.

 Incredible views

Chicken door:)

 Getting water for the chickens.

 Best part was collecting eggs.

 Filling up their food dishes.

Thanks Peggy for letting us do this.  So so much fun!!



CHRISTMAS 2013

 The boys woke up Christmas morning and read Santa's letter to them.  He thanked them for the nice treats and for making it on the nice list this year.  The Elf left with Santa and finished off the container of maple syrup.

 Then the fun began...

 August enjoyed watching his brothers tear open gifts.

 Showing off his Ninja moves.

They were so excited!!

 Special gifts from  Great Uncle Frank and Aunt Cindy

Such fun memories.  They boys asked Santa this year for Ninjago sets.  We were able to Skype with Grandpa and Grandma Dosmann and Grandma and Grandpa Dircks and have them watch us open gifts.