Sauvie Island

This weekend we took advantage of the warm, sunny weather and headed out on a hike. We didn't feel like driving too far, so just headed to do some exploring around Sauvie Island. We were treated to a beautiful day and fantastic mountain views. We walked along the beach, explored a trail, and had some good laughs along the way.



Grayson and Rowan found some great shells.





Rowan spotted the biggest ever mushroom growing out of the side of a tree.

It was so wonderful to feel the sun.

Rowan found a good walking stick and enjoyed being our leader.

We even lucked out and got to see an eagle!

Winter Ball

Last weekend Fuller attended his high school's Winter Ball. Winter Ball is traditionally a girl's choice. A girl he met on the cross country team invited him by way of a stuffed frog and a poem. He went with a group of sophomores, most of whom also run cross country. The plan was to meet at one of the boys' house for pictures, then they all went out to dinner at Applebees, and then on to the dance. He said he had a great time, other than his feet hurting from the rental shoes that came with the tux. I love that he is getting to take part in these fun activities and start making those high school memories.

Special Birthdays

Happy Birthday mom and dad! Getting better every year!

Snow Day- Take Two

Well, the boys got their wish! Another snow day! It snowed pretty much all night long, and when we woke up there was a thick blanket of snow over everything. I suggested that Paul stay home. He decided it was fine, and dug his car out to go to work. Luckily he made it safely to and from work, although he did do a 180 degree spin on HWY 30. Thankfully I didn't know about that until after he had arrived in one piece.

The boys got busy on another full day of snow play.

We ended up getting almost 10 inches of snow.

Grayson and Rowan did their best to find ways to sled down the driveway.


And Fuller earned his keep by shoveling a TON of snow!

Snow Day

This morning we woke up to big fat snow flakes falling from the sky, and a call from the school district saying that we were on a two hour delay. The boys lounged around in their pajamas until we got the second call saying that school was cancelled. Then they were ready for some time in the snow. They had snow ball fights, built snow forts, tried unsuccessfully to sled down the hill, and made frequent trips inside for dry clothes and snacks. A great snow day was had by all, and they are hoping for another one tomorrow.

Scout Snow Trip

This weekend Paul and the two older boys headed up to Mt Hood with the scout group for some sledding and fun times hanging out around the lodge. There wasn't a ton of snow, but thankfully enough to cover the sledding run.

This was Fuller's third year going and Grayson's first. He was really excited about finally being old enough to go.

Fuller and Grayson both had a few crashes, but thankfully came home in one piece. I have to admit, I was pretty worried.

After lots of sledding and a night of staying up late at the lodge eating junk food and playing cards I had three tired boys return home.

Here's Fuller and his friend Daniel hiking back up the hill.

While they were gone Rowan and I had a great time without them. We played games, watched movies, went out to eat, and had our own sleep over. A good weekend for everyone.

Bidding 2011 Farewell

We all stayed in last night and had a "wild" family New Year's party. We spent the night...

eating yummy hors d'ouevres

snuggling with the ones we love

trying to finish our Christmas puzzle

channeling our "inner Kanye West"

dancing like maniacs

and watching Dick Clark's rockin' New Years Eve.

Everyone but Rowan made it to midnight, and we are all excited to see what 2012 will bring with it.