My mom passed away 7 years ago. Gator and I went out to the cemetery last night after riding lessons. Davis County had a big snowstorm yesterday, we brushed off her headstone, but it was quickly getting covered again by the falling snow. I love you mom.
Gosh family pictures are stressful. I was going to do them in the fall, but with football, the fall is too busy. Kin's mom came with us so she could take our pictures, and we asked around for recommendations of places in Pocatello. It had just snowed, and there was a ton of snow where we went, and the wind was blowing like it always does in Pocatello, but down in the little alcove it was perfect. It may take more planning for family pictures as my kids get older and have their own schedules and commitments, but I must say it is much quicker when we do find a time. They all wanted to get out of there, and they now know if they cooperate and do what is asked, then we are done in no time. They decided to play a little prank on me and it was actually hilarious. Davis said he was going to wear an ugly Christmas sweater for pictures. I told them I am not picky, and we don't have to all be matchy matchy, but no ugly Christmas sweaters. Everyone looked very nice. I was told there was a surprise so I needed to go down the trail a little and check out the spots that I liked. A few minutes later, they all came stomping down in their ugly Christmas sweaters. They looked great! I laughed so hard, especially at Davis' dress. He had to be freezing. But I wasn't going to let him get dressed yet, I had to get some pictures of them all in their prank outfits before they changed and we got down to business. I love how they turned out, and it was worth the stress of getting everyone together in the same location, dressed nice, and in good moods, even the dogs.
Lost in Christmas is what they call the Burley Straw Maze at Christmas time. We went last year, on this same weekend as well. It is a great way to kick off the holiday season, and I love Christmas lights. I've decided I don't really have a favorite holiday, I just love to celebrate holidays. I guess it doesn't really even take a holiday for me to want to do something fun with my kids. I am so glad they are good sports (most of the time) and will put up with me and the things I want to do. Kin's mom and sister went with us to Pocatello so she could take our pictures. It was fun to go to the lights, get dinner, and just hang out. I didn't dare go down the slide this year, Kylee still did, even though it broke her tail bone last year. Davis and Gator tried the bull again, I figured I did so well last year, no need to try it again. The lights and the snow were beautiful, and even though it was a tad cold and breezy, it was a perfect evening.
I didn't take many pictures on Thanksgiving, we were too busy just relaxing, watching football, eating, and visiting. It was a yummy holiday, and I'm grateful for such wonderful family. Davis and Kin were at her grandparents for dinner, but they came over after for pie and football. Owen and Kylee were with her mom, but I get to see them this weekend. Gator had spent the night at Krissy's while I worked, so I was happy to be back with her. While she was busy over there, I went to the temple on Wednesday morning, then I had to go to the tire shop and have a flat tire repaired. I have pretty great people in my life, I'm grateful everyday.
.HEIC)
In this house we start the Holiday season November 1st. I love fall, and Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday, but November & December are the holidays and I will mix them and celebrate them together and decorate for both. November has been pretty slow, trying to finish up a class, Owen has been hurt so he's not playing, and just life. I need the lights and excitement of the holidays to get me out of the funk I'm in. So we haven't done too much, but hopefully that changes this week as we have a busy calendar from here until the end of the year.
Gator is still loving her riding lessons. She needs to own her own horse, maybe one day.
Davis and Kin are busy, but it is fun to go to their place for dinner. It is awesome when I get a text from Davis inviting me over. I know it's just so I make and bring dinner with me, but even when I try to say it's okay you're busy, he actually acts like he wants me to come over and I'll take it and enjoy the evening! And he brings the game out and he sets it up to play, of course I am going to play.
