Colder than cold

 This winter has been one of the coldest. On average the temperatures have been in the 20's and 30's. We experienced temperates in the negatives with the wind chills. I don't ever remember a time like that. Because it's been so cold, it's been a really difficult winter. I've been depressed, much like a lot of people I talk to. Every day you have to wear leggings under your pants to keep warm and at least 3 upper layers. I remember last year having to do that a few days of the week, but not every day. It's entirely draining on the mind. I'm so ready for spring!


We've had only a couple of snow storms. This first one in late January barely left us enough snow to sled.

Valentine snow storm; our first good storm.

 We just had another snow storm Valentine's weekend that dumped about 4-5 inches. That was great for sledding. We met up with the Scott's at Clark park and had fun. Then went back to their house for hot chocolate.

Lego City

 The kids have worked hard building houses and vehicles for all of the lego people they have. They've created a city, suggested by Nannie, for them all to enjoy. Even since this picture they have added more houses. Things are always changing in the city too. They make vet offices, parks, etc. I love their creativity and the way Legos brings them together. They play Legos for hours! It's really quite beautiful.

Christmas 2014

The kids were so excited to buy each other Christmas presents. I took each of them shopping and they carefully decided which Lego set to get the other. They loved what they got each other. It was so sweet to see how much they love each other and want to bless the other.

On Christmas Eve we promised the kids they could sleep together. (They had been asking for weeks.) Around 3am Alex came running into our room, "Is it morning yet?"
"No buddy, it's still a long way a away. Go back to bed." - I mummered
At 6:30am they charged in our room together and ready to open presents.
This year was a Lego Christmas. They got mostly Lego sets from everyone, except from my brother and AnnMarie, they got sleds. Lilia and Alex had been working on a Lego City and wanted sets to add to their city.
Lilia was most excited about her Jungle Vet Set, and Alex loved his Chima Rhino rock thrower vehicle.

 As per our tradition, we open presents at our house, and head up to my parent's after breakfast and showers. I love spending the day with them; the warmth of the house, and just hanging out enjoying one another's company.



Later in the afternoon my brother and his family came up. We all had dinner together and then opened presents.
This year Ellie had specific presents she wanted to buy for the grandparents. She bought my mom and watch and my dad an American flag. It was pretty adorable.

Naomi playing with the ornaments.

Claire attempting to open a present.

Ellie opening presents.

Olivia enjoying her new coloring book and crayons.

Matt and AnnMarie

My parents with all 6 grandkids.