4th of July Celebrations

Fun filled day that began with flag raising and singing patriotic songs at the church with the ward. The Primary put together A fantastic breakfast which followed. It was the perfect way to begin celebrating our country's birthday. 

Patiently Waiting for Parade 

George & Martha Washington started Parade 

Dad, Grandpa and many of our friends from the ward, Including the Willits who stayed all day worked on the barn. We were only able to pull them away when the sun finally went down (and threats were made to join the family).

Grandpa Payne & Jackson-actually had quite a bit in common

Tractor Rides

Kids were thrilled to take a few laps around the property and get a better glimpse of the many, many bigger firework shows that were going on the hillsides. We enjoyed our little show in the front yard with the kids. McKenna did observe that this was the 1st year she and her siblings were NOT afraid of the fireworks or sparklers anymore. YEAH!!!!

Sparklers

 For Big and Little Kids

Happy Fourth of July 2012!

St Patricks Day

With a little help from the Leprachaun's we got a lot of work done on St. Patrick's Day.  We made the Leprachaun traps, minus the ladders and the Leprachaun's did not disappoint. They watched and rewarded for Jobs well done. Beds made, rooms cleaned, and of course horses stalls mucked.

 Tate not sure of what was going on apprecciated and Loved the chocolate coins.

 Some got more than others but everyone got a little something.

Thank you Leprachaun's, look forward to another visit next year.

Gingerbread Houses, Christmas Tree & parties

Dec 3rd was a busy Day to really kick off the Holiday Season.

It began with making Gingerbread houses at the library (minus the ginger). The kids love going and the library provides all the material. It's awesome!

Then off to McLendon's for our Christmas Tree. Not quite the Cut yourself but the right price.

After dropping John off we headed downtown to the Santa parade. A little chilly, but worth it.

That's a Harris Tractor-and finishing up with Santa coming to Town.

We hurried home to get the pie and the girls dressed up since they would be in the Ward Nativity this year.

Tyler was our Angel and McKenna debuted as a Star in the Ward Nativity-the kids all did a great job!

Ending the night with a visit with Santa Claus

Tate is still not too sure of Santa and that's ok.

A very busy and very fun Day.

Thanksgiving 2011

Thanksgiving started a few days early as we made preparations for the big Meal. Of course it started with our costumes, not the actual food, although I think I had just barely pulled out the Turkey to thaw out as well :) The girls were excited to help make the hats and even more cooperative when it came to modeling them.

Thanksgiving finally came and here are the results:

Reinactment of the 1st Thanksgiving complete with pilgrims and "indians".

Who even liked most of the food.

The whole Dinner -arty John, Josh, Leslie & Kids

Our late sleeper: Miss Tank

Our Dad's happy place, football with the Boys!

Making Cookie pilgrim Hats

Turkey Leg anyone?

finally Dessert, Not just Dessert, but Leslie's famous Trifle.

Happy Thanksgiving and thank you Leslie and her family and Josh for coming over and celebrating with us.