New Years Eve

This is how cousins make a huge mess opening gifts!

Playing ukelele with papa

On New Years Eve we went to Haven to go to Steve's family Christmas...little did we know it was actually on New Years Day! After we had a good laugh we decided to stay and hang out and do our Christmas anyway. The kids all had fun opening way to many gifts and making a huge mess with the wrapping paper.

Then it was off to Douglas for the Howell family Christmas. It seemed smaller this year, Maybe just because so much of my immediate family wasn't there. Good food, good people and good times were had then it was home early so mom could go to bed in order to work the next morning!

Family Photos

We went and had a family portraits done today. Logan was a little cranky but we got it done. I suppose that's what I get for scheduling anything at 5:00P.M. I'm so excited because I got the 10X13 I had been wanting. Now I can put each of the boys' pics as well as the family pic up on the fireplace wall!

Hooray for Payton!

Today Abby, Payton and Grayson came over. We hadn't seen them since before Christmas and we're definitely going through withdrawls! We opened presents, ate lunch, had naps, played with the new toys, loved on baby Gray, read books and had a great time! We're so lucky to have such great friends. It's just a plus that the kids entertain each other!

Merry Christmas

All tuckered out

Logan's new friends

Christmas was very different this year. I am learning very quickly how many things I take for granted...like opening presents with both of my parents in the same house, having everyone cranky and tired but at least together and enjoying all of the silly little family traditions.

Despite some of my melancholy, Logan had a very good Christmas. He got lots of toys and learned what unwrapping presents was all about. His two new favorite things to do are ride or pull his wagon all over the house and cook in his new little kitchenette. We can't wait to have Payton over for a playdate...who knows what they will make together!

We miss uncle AJ and aunt Kristin but are so glad that they are safe in SC and from what I hear have already gotten some snow! Hope everyone had a great Christmas.

P.S. The great Dane in the picture about is looking for a home!

'Twas the Night Before Christmas

'Twas the night before Christmas and all through the house,
The children were screaming, so who cares about a mouse!
The stockings were hung by the chimney with care,
And on the TV CMT station did blare!

The children were nestled all snug in their beds,
Okay so maybe not…that was just in my head!
With Momma in jammies wishing she’d had a nap,
The children were crazy, Daddy could use a nightcap!

When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter,
Dad sprang to the door to see what was the matter.
Momma ran too, to the door in a flash.
Logan wasn’t far behind. He makes such a mad dash!

And then in a twinkling Mom heard in the air,
Ten thousand sirens and we all sent up prayers!
When we ran back inside and were turning around,
Out ran the darn dog, he’d for sure like to drown!

He sprinted from the yard with Mom behind on foot,
And his white coat was soiled with dirt and with soot.
Mom didn’t give up but decided she’d stay,
Who the heck would chase this dog if he won’t obey?

Just then Colby turned around,
Maybe he decided he was cold.
Doesn’t he know running isn’t for him?
He is far, far too old.

So inside we fled and all gathered by the fire.
Another truly Taylor Christmas, of drama we never tire!
We snuggled close together and thanked the Lord we were there.
Merry Christmas to you and yours and to bloggers everywhere!

Rough Time

Hey guys...I know there hasn't been a whole bunch on the blog lately. My family is going through a really rough time right now. I will get back into posting as soon I feel I am able. Thanks for all your thoughts and prayers.

Christmas Pic

Remember that adorable picture of Logan and Payton in their Santa outfits we got last year? Abby and I thought it would be fun to put the kids in their Xmas jammies and try it again. This is what we got....

...and let me assure you that we laughed, bought it anyhow and went on with our lives! There is always next year!