A freezing but fun afternoon for all

Last Saturday we went sledding, as the result of a promise Jeff made to the kids. They didn't seem to mind that it was 20 degrees outside and we couldn't convince them to change plans. A promise is a promise. So, we bundled up with coats, hats, scarfs, boots, snowpants, and mittens. The hill was perfect... steep and icy. "Icy" is never a bonus to me , however when talking about a sledding hill , icy = fast! Avery was the first one down the hill. Her smile said it all. She loved it. Anxiously awaiting her turn...Ellie ran and jumped on her sled & down she went. Zachary was more timid so, Jeff started him off. But, quickly he discovered the thrill and didn't want anyone to stand in his way. The smiles and giggles were priceless. Since there was a street(a dead-end street) at the end of the hill, Jeff had to "catch" the kids before they flew off. Thanks daddy, we had a safe and fun day!I did my best to withstand the frigid windchill but I found myself warming up in the car more than once. Soon the time came that even the kids were to cold to continue, so we packed 'em up. As we drove off, I looked in the back seat and saw happy faces and rosy cheeks. What a "freezing" but fun memory!

Note to the peanut gallery:

Yes, Zachary is wearing lavender boots and, yes they are Ellie's.
No, Zachary doesn't have to wear them ever again and, no he wasn't seen in public. It seems Zachary's feet had a growth spurt that we were unaware of until Saturday morning. Looks like I have some shopping to do.

Look out Kansas, The boys are back in town!

Hunting is not my thing, but Jeff sure loves it! This past weekend Jeff and several buddies went on their annual pheasant hunting trip. For the last 11 years Jeff has gone to Kansas for the ultimate male bonding trip! And, for the last 2 years Bruce has joined them. I can't really write much about it since I wasn't there. However, in light of the fact that this is a family journal, the hunting trip deserves a post. I have heard and can report some of the details. The "dudes" had a great time- you know, all that laughing, eating, walking the fields, and( gasp)...shooting, was just what they needed. I guess. I do know that this trip is a much deserved "break" and fun outing that Jeff looks forward to each and every year.


I don't want to ignore posting on the outstanding behavior of the 3 Anderson children while Jeff was gone. Now, surely you know, this is not always the case. But, most definitely this weekend I was impressed. They behaved like champs! It was so enjoyable spending my time with them. We played, snuggled, went to the movie with the Bischoffs, went out to eat, and they even helped me prepare sharing time. Kinkos can really keep 3 kiddos occupied for quite some time. My favorite thing is ...shhhh, don't tell Jeff, letting the kids sleep in our bed. I love hearing them breath through the night. Truthfully, it helps me sleep also. I don't have to worry and check in on them all night. But, more than that I love having Jeff home. So, we are thankful he made it home safe and sound and is back right where he belongs.