Merry Christmas!!

Checking in

I've taken an unintentional break from social media.  It just kinda happened, and it probably isn't over yet.  Life just gets busy, and spending more time on the computer hasn't been appealing.  I've missed all of you though!

During this season I'm thankful for so much...

These two gorgeous kids, they crack me up everyday!!

A husband who takes time out of his busy schedule to plan a really fun date for us.  Thanks Brian for helping "take care" of our marriage.

A day off, so I can bake away.

Christmas music.

My prayer partner, who really listens and cares.

My home, which is imperfect and beautiful in it's own special way.

Candles that smell sooo good.

A green Christmas in the tundra.

Love so amazing, in the form of a baby named Jesus.

I hope that you all can pause and really relish the magic of Christmas.

Hugs~

Rachel

A little getaway

Happy Wednesday!

xoxo

Rachel

Happy Halloween

Have a fun night, filled with lots of candy!!

xoxo

Brian, Rachel, Katie, and Ian

Happy Birthday Katie!!!

14

"Promise me you'll always remember: you're braver than you believe and stronger than you seem and smarter than you think."

~ Christopher Robin

Dear Katie,

We are so proud of you and love you so very much!  You are a very special daughter and we think you are the best.  Have a wonderful birthday sweetie.

Love,

Mom and Dad

Seasons of Giving

For some time now, I have been thinking about doing a series of posts on preparing for the holidays.

I was somewhat stumped though on what I wanted my focus to be about.

Yesterday's church service inspired me.

GIVING

Life can be rather hectic. We can get really caught up in our own lives, and forget what is going on around us.  As we wind up 2011, I want to encourage myself and my family to give of their resources, time, minds, and hearts.  

Now, many of these posts are going to be really practical.  For example you may question what cleaning out the oven has to do with GIVING.   My hope is that you and I will be able to fully enjoy the exciting seasons ahead because our hearts and minds will be focused on GIVING.
I'm looking forward to putting these posts together.  I think we will be able to encourage and give each other lots of great ideas!
Happy Tuesday!
xoxo
Rachel

Back to School Party 2011

Menu

Blood Orange Soda

Roasted Beef Tenderloin

Horseradish Mustard Sauce

Sauteed Zucchini

Roasted Potatoes

Chocolate Chip Cheesecake

Have a great week!

xoxo

Rachel

A visit to the apple orchard

Another annual tradition

I tried a new recipe for apple pie...it was good. I'll try to post it next week.

Welcome autumn!

xoxo

Rachel

First day of School 2011

School started after Labor day.

8th grade.  Sorry the photo is so horrible.  We were in a rush and Katie leaves when it's still dark out.

3rd grade

Have a great day!

Rachel

State Fair 2011

Waaay behind on blogging! 

Here is a peek from our annual trip to the State Fair.

It was a few weeks ago.

Did you know the first day of Autumn is this week?  Friday or Saturday, I can't remember.

So, happy Monday and enjoy this last week of summer!

xoxo

Rachel