Big Boy

Marshall is such a big boy. I don't remember Sheppard being so independent and "old" at this age. It probably has to do with having an older brother to imitate. Marshall wants to eat at the real table, with real silverware. He can play independently for hours "organizing" my cupboards, pushing cars around the edges of the railings, and crawling around barking like a dog. Shep thinks Marshall is his dog, and Marshall plays the part beautifully. He's got a very believable bark. He is also Shep's wrestling buddy which initially scared mommy, but I have since learned that Marsh can hold his own against his big bro.

Blue and Gold Banquet

If any of you know Aram you know that being the center of attention and trying to be silly really isn't his cup of tea. Well, that is exactly what he is asked to do in his calling as Asst. Cub Scout Master. Some callings you may get because you are really talented in a certain area or some you may get to help you grow. This is definitely the latter for Aram. He is totally out of his element but he is a great sport. I think he does a fabulous job telling lame jokes and presenting awards in creative ways. And, you can't refuse a man in a uniform, right? I love Aram for his willingness to serve even though he may not enjoy what he considers public humiliation.

I Love Snow

In case you were wondering I am wearing one of Shep's snow hats, I packed him two and forgot mine.

After living in Arizona for 18 months I have not been the biggest fan of winter. Especially those long and dreary February days of the inversion. But, I have to say I have had some pretty fabulous days of snowshoeing that makes me want to shout from the rooftops that "I love Snow". I love those days right after it snows and you get the clearest blue sky and the sun penetrates right to your soul and makes you feel so alive. It's the best!
On this hike we went up to Wheeler Creek in Ogden Canyon. I carried Marshall in the pack and Aram dragged Sheppard in the sled behind him. Shep was so relaxed, he zoned out and enjoyed the ride. I know we seem crazy but you've got to share the joys of your life with your kids, and not let them stop you from venturing out.

Schrute Farms

For our anniversary Aram arranged for us to stay in the loft of a barn in the small town of Inkom, Idaho. He thought the boys would love it. Not only did the boys love it, but I did as well. It was really nice: full kitchen, master bed, loft with 3 beds, and a beautiful family room with a pot belly stove. Not too shabby for a barn. We also explored Lava Hot Springs. We checked out the pool on Friday night and the boys were in pure in heaven. Then on Saturday, we did the hot pools. I was in pure heaven. You can't beat sitting in an outdoor hot tub on a gorgeous clear blue day, with fresh snow. Thanks sweetie for planning this memorable getaway!

Classic!

This is so classic Sheppard. Whenever he gets his blanket in hand he starts to suck on his own tongue. Hence, the funny face. Shep's blanket is a drug for him, it sedates him. Which makes it really nice to have on long drives, and for bedtime.

McQueen is King

Shep had a very Merry, McQueen Christmas. He got a Mack truck, a Cars table, and lots of other things to "decorate" our house. His Grandma Lou Lou gave him some "Cars" stickers. He decided he wanted to wear these stickers all over his face. He was so pleased with himself, until he had to take them off (ouch).

I'll be Home for Christmas

We got to go home for Christmas our beloved Montana. We had an awesome time with our family. We are so blessed to have such great parents, and siblings. Shep loved being with his cousins. He was literally his cousin Mason's shadow. He copied everything he did, and said. Mason had a sweatshirt on with a hoodie, so Shep tried to put on his hoodie, which was none existent. He pulled his shirt up over his head so he could be like Mason.

Christmas was great. The highlight was after Shep opened his train, he threw his hands up in the air and said to the sky, "Thank you, thank you, thank you Santa!" I felt very appreciated.