Perspective

Things can/do get a little wild/crazy here on the home-front and at times my view of life gets very nearsighted.  Just last week our neighbor died and left his wife and 7 year old son here on earth to keep on living.  I lost it for about an hour or two, just thinking of how ungrateful my heart tends to lean.  What do I have to complain about EVER!!!  I have even thought a time or two "man, if I lived by myself I could actually accomplish things through out the day and I wouldn't have to pick up after anyone...".  Yeah, that's the point, there wouldn't BE anyone.....   Oh God, thank you for the reminders you always send my way... Thank you Jesus for all these people to 'pick up' after.  Show me how I can minister to our neighbor boy and his mother.  

Week in Whistler

For Nate's birthday we decided to take our week away for the year and regroup, making sure that where we are heading as a family and a couple spiritually is still what God has for us.   we were able to enjoy many hours of being quiet.  One of the fun things that we've matured into is finishing an entire conversation in one sitting.  I was able to speed up a little and think, Nate was willing to slow down a little (because we had the time too).  

Nate and I took a week 'off' and went to Canada's Whistler ski resort.  We  tried to act like retired people on this trip (because that always 'looks' relaxing).  We did our best and enjoyed ourselves.  

Above is our 'cute' room.  Nate could sit on the bed and wash dishes (almost).  It was all we needed but even one pair of clothes not put away made the place seem stuffy.

Just a fun night view of the village where we spent much time walking and talking and drinking coffee.

  

Above was a typical evening time meal and game of cribbage, Poor Nate subjects himself to losing...:)

My super skiier

Nate took two days of his ski time to help me get down the hills with better technique.  He told me afterwords that the hill I had just gone on was not for beginners (that would explain why it took 30min to get down though).

Nate looking at the prices.  We almost could afford to eat or ski, but not both.

Just a very pretty creek that this picture does not do justice. 

While we were gone Nate's parents had the kids and 'spoiled' them for a week.  They were excited to have us back because the novelty of being at Grandpa and Grandma's house was wear ing off some.  We could NOT have gone without you all (Titus and Kaytra included).  We know it was a LOT of work and truly are grateful.  

We had some fun girly time today.  Man am I excited to grow up with these precious daughters of mine.  We have so much fun now, it can only get better from here, I'm sure of it.

And this is our eldest boy Nate.  Nicknames lately are:  Mr. Responsible and Mr. Hungry.  30 minutes after we eat he's hungry again.  We figure it's coming towards spring and he's just getting ready to grow.    He is so much of a leader with the kids and they all LOVE to follow (most of the time).  He's loving having a wallet (which in the first picture he's trying to show someone), and all the credit cards, money, pictures....  that go with one.

     

This is our Todd Lee Copper and what a special boy he's been.  The three going on four stage and loving every minute of it.  We could not have asked for a more fun third born child.  He is keeping up with his big brother Nate pretty well and has many 'tricks' up his sleeves.  Very rarely does he like to snuggle but when he does we take advantage of every minute of it.  

And we officially have five children who can stand on their own two feet.  Here they are:

Andi Kristyne had her turn for a photo session and what a little goof.  I've realized with most little ones like this that they need something in their hands or they will get wiggly very quickly.  What a joy this girl is to have around.  She is soooo much girl and loves to snuggle and would be happy never to have to walk (enjoys being carried).  She in the process of training so she will soon get to wear pink panties like the Hal.  I'm excited to have only one in diapers soon (maybe).

(More photos of the boys to come)

And Hal and I went out today for fifteen minutes or so while the kids were sleeping and had a CHRISTmas photo shoot.  She was an absolute scream posing for me.  Halley has become my helper lately in the kitchen and with the kids whenever I need an extra hand.  She's growing more tender hearted and kind each day.  Our sunshines and rains girl.