Puzzle Champion

He learned from the best, his big sister, Lanie.

Daniel and Papa cut down this little tree just for Lanie. Uncle Rusty even made it its own stand.

Day 2

Tree Trimming

We broke the decorating into two days this year. The day we cut down our tree, we went to Missoula to see baby Alexie and by the time we got home it was all mom and dad could do to get the lights on the tree. Of course we had promised Lanie we would decorate when we got home so we let her hang a few ornaments and called it good!

The Search For The Perfect Tree

We weren't sure we should go cut our own tree this year because it's such a long drive to find Forest Service land, but we had a great time and it was much warmer than past years.

Cute Kids

A Favorite Tradition

Every year when we drag out the mini tree my grandma gave me , I feel like the Christmas season is officially beginning. I don't know what it is about that little tree, but it gets us in to the holiday mood.

Not So Yummy Gingerbread

Whoever says these kits are a waste of money has never done one with a 3 year old and a 1 year old! The kids loved it and they could actually help. With everything pre-prepared it only took about 20 minutes which is perfect for their attention span.The only draw back is that the icing and gingerbread tasted horrible. They must put something in it to try and detour kids from eating the ingredients. Let me tell you, it was disgusting. It kept all of us of from nibbling except Jack. He wasn't stopped. Finally we put him in his high chair and let him munch away. I think it turned out pretty darn cute

School Work

Lanie's school work for November. She is doing so well and LOVES school and her teacher

Fun in Phillipsburg

Phillipsburg has one of those cool Fort-style playgrounds at the school. So after the cabin we hit the candy factory and then went to burn the calories off at the playground. If for any reason, some of you make it to western Montana, Phillipsburg should be a stop on your tour. It is an adorable historic town filled with cute shops and old historic buildings, and an incredible old fashioned candy shop.

We Love Our Cousins!

After Thanksgiving, we went and spent a night with Suzie and Rusty at their cabin outside of Phillipsburg. We had a great time free from TV and outside distractions and the kids played until they literally dropped.

Mom, I'm sure this brings back the same memories for you as it immediately did for me. I remember many a floor pallet being spread for me, Chuck, Rory, and Erin...

Turkey Day

Nothing says Thanksgiving like Pumkin Pie and Sushi, right? David and I decided Sushi would officially be or own unique Thanksgiving Day twist.

We all had a wonderful time at granny and papa's. Sometimes quiet and relaxing is the way to go.