Birthday Celebrations

To be honest, it seems that January has been a heavy one for many around me... I haven't been in that good of spirits. But, these experiences magnify my blessings like nothing else.

I am very greatful for my family. Words can't seem to express it well enough. Steve and Emilie had back to back birthdays, and I love these photos.

The happy girl: her smile is contagious. I can't believe that she is as smiley as she is. (she also has other swings too... i guess we have passionate genes):








We recently watched "Up" and Maddie put together a little house, and started walking it around with a balloon. So hilarious.

Steve's birthday! Yes, he's old! (Wink Wink). That means I'm getting old too...

Maddie copying me with her camera.

Every year starting 3 years ago, we decided eclairs were our favorite birthday treat.... so here they are! They are the best thing ever... I think I could eat all of these in 6 minutes.

Christmas 2009

It's January 20th, and I'm posting about Christmas! Eeek. I got my new camera (yay!) and new software, so it's been taking me a while to figure everything out.

Anyway- Christmas 2009 was one of the best we've had in SLC. I think it was because we packed it full of activities and played a lot in the water... which is always our favorite.

Steve and I also got away for 19 hours thanks to his mom. We stayed at a fabuloso hotel, in the executive suite, got massages, worked out, watched movies, swam, sat in the hot tub for hours... it was heaven really. I want to do this every year.

Here are some other highlights:

We went to lots of indoor water parks! What a GREAT idea. I wish we had these in California, but I don't think anyone can justify it b/c of our warmer weather. Anyway, playing in the water while it's snowing outside is awesome.

This was Steve's almost entire family on our "family" day.

Love water slides. Weren't they the best when you were younger? (and older!)

My kids aren't lovers of snow. Maddie had a great time for mmm 10 minutes, and then she wanted in. In fact, as I type this she is saying "Mom, I don't like the snow." Well, yes, it is cold.


My mom gave our kids the cutest little old fashion sled. Maddie pushed Emilie around for about 2 minutes before she was done.

Christmas Eve, the grandkids got pampered beyond belief. One of Maddie's favorites was Fancy Nancy earings. Here she is showing them off.

She is slightly obsessed with Mary... and always loves covering her head...

My favorite shot of the trip. The jacket was perfect. Thank you Old Navy.

Feeding the ducks with grandpa.
Playing in the snow with cousins...


Although it always really hard for us to come home, it was no nice to step out of the plane into 65 degree weather and a little bit of humidity. You can't beat the weather here that is for sure!!