Tribute to those serving our country!

This youtube video really hit home for me today! I just thought I'd share it with all of you.
http://www.youtube.com/v/ervaMPt4Ha0&autoplay=1

Under Construction

Some of you know that we only have 2 rooms left to finish in our basement, and we are officially on our way...after almost 10 years. James started last week by cutting concrete out of the floor to move the drains for the tub and toilet. I apologized for the inconvenience because I was the one who wouldn't settle for less than the jetted jub. When we built our house, I wanted jetts somewhere, but was told it was too much money. Then one day James used one of our tubs and quickly understood my desires for a bigger tub. We never thought cutting the concrete would make such a mess. He had created his own little booth down there to contain the dust, but it quickly found the cold air return and filled the house. Braxton came running down the hall and asked me to 'keep him safe'. As I walked to the hall, the entire house was filling with dust. Lets just say...we'll be cleaning every room from top to bottom over the next month.

Yey!

The drain is officially moved...and the hole is filled with concrete.

Braxton loves to help his dad! I came home on Saturday to see them cleaning up a little. We think it is very important to get proof of these moments when they happen so we can use it when he's older and refuses to lift a finger.

James caught him in all the safety equipment. I think we'll call him Urkel.

Happy New Year!

I'm finally getting around to posting some pictures from New Year's. We were interested to see how Mr. B. did again this year. We let him stay up last year...just to see if he could do it...and to our amazement he sat on the couch with his eyes glazed over and watched the ball drop. That's my boy! This year wasn't much different other than there were lots more kids running around and they were much more tired. We have had the tradition of hanging out with neighborhood friends for a few years now and love them all. Thanks Rhett, for letting us come destroy your house. This year we all ate till we were sick and played Rock Band. Lots-o-fun!!! Good luck to everyone as you start your New Year's Resolutions. I think I'll make mine up as I go.

Yey! We all made it to 2009! Minus a few kids...
Finally! A break and some silence.
Braxton made it to 11:56 before he broke down.

Santa stopped by!

What a Christmas! This time of year seems to bring out who people really are and I just love it. I've had the opportunity to continue the Sub-for-Santa that I helped start (with the Young Women) in our ward about 4 years ago. I'm still working with this three years later on the Activities committee. This has probably been one of the biggest testimony builders for me and the 'reason for the season'. People are amazing and so giving each year. I feel bad that I can't share the feelings and things I've learned through this wonderful experience...words just can't express. I am so thankful to be in the service of those around me. It also helps me to appreciate what I have.
Christmas Eve we went to my Mom and Sister's home. Nana Cherie has officially been designated as the jammies grandma. We enjoy yummy food...usually ham sandwiches...and then open gifts. This year Braxton and Kambry got coaster cars. They had a blast!
Christmas morning both me and James were awake at 6:00. Santa wasn't going to come until after nap. I know...sounds strange, but we had to be to my dad's house by 9:00 and knew it would be a long process. Santa quickly finished setting those gifts out just as Braxton started waking up about 7:00. We opened a couple of presents and left for Papa and Nana's house. Braxton didn't mind at all. In fact, he kept telling us he was going to save some presents for later. He's not a normal child. Braxton had talked to Santa the Monday before and told him he wanted an Elmo that talked, a big truck, and a candy cane....and he delivered. Santa 'almost' forgot that candy cane, but we reminded him before he slipped out.
We opened presents at Nana and Papa's and had a late breakfast. Braxton got a kitchen that he loves. So far we've had oatmeal, cookies, and milk. That night James' parents were coming up, but his Dad had been sick the night before and the weather was awful. They came up the next night for dinner. We have always been so used to 'running' like crazy for Christmas that we didn't know what to do with ourselves...we played and hung out...it was great!!! Braxton got a digital camera and V Motion from this Nana and Papa. These were a 'big' hit. He is always trying to get our cameras. Anything technology sparks his attention...just like his daddy. We were totally surprised when we opened our combined gift and saw a Wii.
We want our family to know how much we love them and thank you for all you do for us...we're very spoiled.