Getting Ready For Horse Riding Lessons

Cierra began riding horses almost before she could walk! Her first ride was literally at 14 months old! I didn't even get on the horse with her that first time- and she had absolutely no fear. She loves horses (any animal really) and is very excited for the weather to warm up so that she can start riding again.

We decided to go feed Nina some carrots.

Isn't she cute!

Ode to Grandpa Darwin!

Christmas Vacation in Garrison

Raice is taking music lessons that will eventually help him to be able to pick up almost any instrument and play. Grandpa Darwin helped Santa get this real electric guitar and amp! Thanks Grandpa!

Presents and Presents Galore!

 Part of my ploy to become the "coolest" aunt and mommy was to make cookies for Santa with the kids. Who knows if Riley remembers it, but Cierra still talks about it. "Haf ta bake cookies for Santa huh mom?"

Here are the presents Santa left. I remember as a kid the presents looking much more glamorous. I think my mom must have worked overtime for this. As it was Tyler and I didn't get to bed until 2:30!

Raice opening his "Pillow Pet" at Grandma Jeanie's

Autumn enjoying their presents too!

Christmas Eve Dinner

Christmas Eve Dinner at Grandma and Grandpa's

   Autumn, Cierra, Coby, Ryen, Raice, Riley,and  Britley. They all had a really good time opening presents. It was my goal to be remembered as the "coolest" aunt by getting the "best" presents. In reality though, I'm sure only a month later, they don't remember what I got them! It'll be the overall feeling throughout the years that they remember about me. So... I'll keep on trying!

 Cierrra, opening her Tinker Bell table and chair set that Grandma and Grandpa gave her.

 Raice and his singing machine.

 Autumn is content *only* because she is in the midst of all the commotion!

Here's Britley with her "Santa Baby" dress on!

...and these two are really cute! I can't wait until Kari has her next baby in May!