A New America

I haven't ever really been a very politically minded person. I may have pretended to be over the years, but the reality is that I seemed to be able to understand opposing points of view, and had a hard time standing firm on one side of many issues. After I would present my argument for my viewpoint, I would listen to the other side and say, "I see how you could feel that way." Thus, leaving me vulnerable in my own stance. But, years of marriage to Nate {who is very good at defending an issue, and making the other side look quite ridiculous}, coupled with my increasing desire to see a government that will defend and sustain our constitution, preserving the freedoms we enjoy so that our children will also have that privilege have sharpened my vision and drawn me to one side of the fence. If I dare say, the Republican side. I voted for John McCain for the president of the United States, although I initially supported Romney for his strong economic background. For me the race was about political issues which I have worked hard to understand and take a position on. I do have to say, however, that there was a time in the presidential race that I was drawn to Barack Obama. He is a very eloquent speaker and, although I like George Bush, I got caught up in the rhetoric for change. I loved what he had to say about Fathers. {so did Alisa and Lonnie: see here} I liked that America was responding so well to a man of African-American descent. It felt like progress and change. But then I listened to the policies he presented and promptly remembered that I was voting for a president who would defend the policies and practices that I felt were most important in defending the constitution of our United States. {not to mention the tax thing: I support our government, but would like to have a little more choice as to how I distribute my charitable contributions. All that being said, I knew in my gut that Barack Obama would be the next President of the United States. I was sure that, for the reasons I mentioned above, there were many who would vote for him. And I'm ok with that. I hope that the tangible excitement felt during the inauguration persists, and that a spirit of optimism will permeate our great nation, helping everyone to see the opportunity and the goodness through the difficult times. So, say a little prayer for America and for our new President. Because "Yes, we can." And we will....

When I Grow Up

At breakfast today, Emma told us that when Amelia "grows a mom" she will have 5 kids. Amelia proceeded to tell us that when she "grows a mom" she will have lots of money and her own house too. Of course she thinks that she is rich now because she found a quarter in the seat cushions at Grandpa's house and he told her she could keep it.

Slow Start

It looks like I am off to a slow start at recording and sharing this wonderful new year. I like a good reason to "start over" and to "try a little harder to do a little better" {favorite quote from President Gordon B. Hinckley}.
Today we visited with Grandpa Bear at the ranch for a little bit. Every time we visit I wonder why we don't take more time from our lives to share with him. His cheerful attitude and wonderful stories make me a happier girl when I leave. And the kids just love to tease and show off for him.
After school we took my shaggy-headed boys to get their hair cut by Aunt Adrienne. She always does such a great job. Adrienne, how do you always keep your house so clean and uncluttered? I want to be like you when I grow up!!

Just In Case

Just in case the 100 photos that I printed and the 100 cards I bought and the little messages I typed up don't make it to your mailbox before Christmas.

Just in case you don't get a Christmas card at all from us.
(Only because I do not have your address)

Just in case I can't do it all:)

Just in case....
Please know we wish you the very Merriest of Christmases and the
Happiest of New Years

P.S. I think that I have figured out the whole video thing. (at least I got them on the computer!) Be Prepared for some awesomeness coming your way.

Big Green Egg Turkey

Thanksgiving was at our house this year. It started out with the traditional turkey bowl, held in our yard. I think the only winner is the team that has the most fun. {How can you have a competitive football game with 6 to 10 year olds?} During the game the girls found a kitty that they carried around the yard the entire time. What a patient and good-natured animal to be so lovingly abused for such a long period of time. I'm wondering if that means that we have a cat now? It's name is Smokey, for what it's worth, and it's always trying to sneak into our house. I found it in the coat closet yesterday. P.S. I've since found out that it belongs to our neighbors who were away for Thanksgiving. It was fun while it lasted!Now, I'm sure the question burning in your minds is: What is a Big Green Egg Turkey?

Well, THIS is the Big Green Egg. It is a grill/smoker that will cook anything to perfection with a taste out of this world. Our favorite is salmon with asparagus. It can cook a mean steak too.

And THIS is the Big Green Egg Turkey.
Yes, it is for real. And it tasted just as good as it looks. We brined the turkey overnight and then in the morning we stuffed it with a mushroom stuffing (no, I do not like mushrooms, but we wanted to do it right) just under the skin. The recipe said that if the skin ripped you had to stitch it closed, so Nate took his stitching talent to the turkey, and voila! After 5 hours on the grill, we had a scrumptious turrkey.

This is Andrew. Need I say more?

For A

I really like to take pictures. Pretty amatuerish, but fun nevertheless, especially when I have such darling subjects like my nieces and nephews. Here are a couple from our "session."

I really did start a post about our Thanksgiving, but got a little crazy busy. I'll try to finish that before Christmas:)

A Little (Big) Favor

So, my second cousin-in-law is a phenomenal photographer and she agreed to take pictures of my beauties. I would like to brag about how wonderful they are turning out. I did promise, though, that I would respect her maternity leave (it's a boy - love little boys). So, no, she's not available now. I guess I'm just one lucky girl. And she's a great second cousin-in-law. Go to her blog to see her wonderful artistry and my loves. Allie Hoopes