Family Pictures 2018

Family pictures get a little harder each year but I just can't help myself.  It is always worth it to catch this zany crew on film. I love to capture a tiny sliver of their personalities as they are right now . A few of the many many images we took will be headed to a Valentine near you next month.

SOMEone is seven!

         Ruth turns seven today!   She is a blessing in my life. Ruth is learning to read more independently this year in first grade and she still loves to learn new skills. Her fiercely independent streak compliments her general tender and sensitive nature. She has taken to piano practice enthusiastically and often tinkles the ivories just for fun. I hope that her bubbling excitement for music continues after this honeymoon period of learning is over.  Ruth loves to draw and write love notes to family members. Alara can often be seen at the art counter copying everything her older sister does, their little sandy blond heads tilted to the side as they create new masterpieces.  Most recently, Ruth and Mac have started basic ice skating lessons and for her main birthday present she received a beautiful new pair of white ice skates. Her laugh is infectious. Six months ago there would have been a wide gap in her front teeth, but she must have gotten a Christmas wish for two front teeth. May you never tire of having me sing the Old Testament song to you every night before bed. Your father and I love you to the moon and back Ruthie Toothie!

Christmas 2018

And this is our living room on Christmas Eve. When you have seven children and your husband stacks presents better than Santa.


This year I tried to avoid toys that would end up cluttering the basement. Long boards, a bow and arrow, books , clothes etc. I want my children to be happy but I also want to stay sane. I think it was a nice balance between the two. The down stairs basement boys were awake at 5:30 but good about following the rule to not come up until 7:00 am. I was even able to read some Scriptures before the present opening began. We rounded off the morning with fried dough.

 My favorite thing under the tree this year.

This one we took to a family we did the 12 days of Christmas for