Teen Bop

Last year, I did something I have never done before. I went to the midnight showing of Twilight. This year it wasn't even a question of if I would go to the midnight showing of New Moon. I went with my friend Courtney, who happens to be 17. She's the one who talked me into going to Twilight in the first place. I admit, I own the books and I like them, though I don't believe they are the most well written books I've read. I will also own that the movies need special affects work. Yet this craze is sort of fun and for one night, I get to go and be a teen bopper, or at least act like it. The funny thing is, when I woke up the morning after I viewed New Moon, I kept thinking about it and wanting to discuss it with Mike or whoever else I knew who follows Edward, Jacob and Bella. THEN, I went and watched the movie AGAIN with my sister-in-laws. It is suddenly dawning on me, that perhaps I am no longer an idle Twilight Fan, but an actual "follower" For example, did you know that they almost canned 17 year old Taylor who plays Jacob in the movie, but he beefed up, so they kept him? I don't own any Edward cutouts or Jacob shirts, but perhaps I can ask Santa for a Twilight poster and keep my fanaticism out of public display. The next movie comes out in June. I'll buy midnight showing tickets, but maybe this odd behavior will calm down by then! Here's to all the non-teen twilight fans out there!

Thanksgiving

Isn't Thanksgiving such a great holiday? A day when you actually think about everything God has given you! I think we should have more Thanksgivings in a year and not just so we can pig out on oh so delicious food! Yes, bring on the pecan pie, stuffing and turkey, but please don't forget the gratitude and maybe a side of humility. And how about some family memories for dessert?

This Thanksgiving we went to Ohio where 6 0f the 7 kids in Mike's family convened. Above is Mike's older sister and his youngest sister, both tremendous women! We enjoyed playing "Bang!" (a card game) watching New Moon, going to the temple, attending our niece's baptism and of course, eating. I only wish we could have played football. That is something we never did growing up, but a tradition I think would be fun to start.

Of course the kids rode horses. I don't know who enjoys it more, Mama, or the kids! Lydia also enjoyed time with Papa. She told me a few days before we left that she couldn't wait to wrestle Papa. They seem to have a special bond.
Mike's brother Chris, and his wife Nicole. They asked me to take their photo for a Christmas card. I posted this one because I think it is the only one where Chris actually smiles! (Come on Chris and Nicole, you didn't think I would take all those pics without posting one?)
The lighting was great a few of the days, so I followed Colton around outside and took pictures of him. I made him sit on the wood pile just like I made Chris and Nicole!
I love that these two are friends. Lydia can never seem to decide if McKensey or Colton is her best friend. On the days that Mckensey is her best friend, Colton is best friends with McKensey's younger brother. (at least, according to Lydia)
While we were in Ohio, our niece was baptized. I loved feeling the Holy Ghost as she was baptized confirming that she is being baptized just as Christ was. It was a good reminder.
Mike's team won the intramural championship! Way to go. Mike is second to the left.
Mike running at his game. I managed to patch his dilapidated shirt. It was a fun challenge.

This n that

A few nights ago before bed, Mike snuck Lydia into our room to play her Leapster. Colton quickly found his to join the crew. Here they all are looking mischievous as they evade bedtime, and Mom.
Lydia and best friend Kensey. They always hold hands on the merry-go-round. Too cute!
I took this photo for a new photography blog I am a part of. This is my free piano that I just had tuned. It works great and I am so glad Mike has such a good nature and is willing to heave this heavy box of strings and keys all around when we move. I am taking lessons from our neighbor and I love it. I have no natural talent, but I am improving and it feels good to be learning. I will admit I won't be volunteering to play in church for a long while yet! Wish me luck.