Sunday, December 21, 2008

Blizzard 2008

Winter begins today, and it came roaring into West Michigan full force. We are thankful for a warm home, and all the creature comforts we need to stay comfortable. It does not seem to be snowing right now, but the wind is vicious, and it is best to stay indoors. The morning church services were canceled and I have a feeling the evening services will be canceled as well. Everett has not plowed our driveway yet today, as it would not help with the strong winds causing the drifting. He did bring wood into the garage last week to dry, and that is great as we have the fireplace roaring all day today.

Right now I am so grateful that we had our Christmas celebration Thanksgiving weekend, so our kids do not have to travel on icy roads to our house. There is always someone traveling, but at least we do not have to deal with Emily's flight and Elton and Lauri and kids traveling around Lake Michigan. As far as we know Brett and Roxanne brought their kids to Dearborn last night, and also made it back home again.

I will go and enjoy the rest of this day quietly. Hummmmmm!

Friday, December 5, 2008

A Cold December Day

Winter has arrived in Michigan. It is snowing and blowing depending on when you look out of the window.

Last week at this time was a flurry of activity in this old house. It was filled with 9 adults and 8 children, scurrying back and forth, in and out, either going to buy some last minute presents, wrapping presents, cooking, decorating the tree and just running and screaming (mostly the kids). It was FUN. Now it is much quieter, but the memories last a lifetime, and what a privilege it is to all be together for the holidays. We all received gifts that made us smile and feel loved. It was especially wonderful to see the expressions on the children's faces when they got just what they wanted. A special thank you to the mom's of those dear grandchildren for picking out those 'just right' gifts. For me it was very special just to have the kids all around.

Now it is back to getting into the normal routine, whatever that is. I have a long list of things that need doing, that I hope to have accomplished by New Year's Eve.

Tuesday, December 2, 2008

Photo update

We had our in-house photographer with us over the weekend so here are a few photos of our family:

Elton, Lauri and their kids Sydney, Ethan, Mackenna & Alex

Brett, Roxanne and their kids Aidan, Regan & Olivia

Joel & Emma
(Brenda is always BEHIND the camera...never in front!)

All our sweet grand babies!