You didn't think I'd be back today did you?

See, I fooled you this time. I really am starting over. I thought I would share a couple of pictures of the boys from the last few weeks. We had our second nine weeks awards program and Peyton got Star Student and the Orderly Panda Character trait. Don't laugh...I have no idea where the orderliness came from! I was so proud of him for the awards but more proud that he actually walked up on the stage and proudly accepted them. Peyton is very shy and I never thought he would actually walk up there in front of all of those people. He is getting to be such a big boy!

It is so exciting seeing my boys growing up to love each other so! I hope they continue to be best friends. Here are some recent pictures of them together.

In this next one Peyton was reading Wilson one of his favorite Thomas books before we left for school.

A new day...

Okay, so I am obviously not still camping...although I will save that post for another time. Today is a new day and I am starting my blogging adventure over. I am going to really try to do better. Although this is a crazy week so it might not be the best week to start. Anyway, I always read people's blogs that use crazy, funny nicknames for their family. I think that might be kind of fun...maybe later though which would really defeat the whole purpose of crazy, funny nicknames. Anyone else ever thought about using nicknames?

Camping

3 Boys
1 Not so outdoorsy Momma
Lots of Mosquitoes in January
This should be FUN!!

A New Year, A New Start

Well...I thought by now I would have downloaded my Christmas pictures and that is why I have been putting off posting. But, I cannot remember to get my camera from Momma's house and I meant I was going to do better with this blog. So, I couldn't mess up on the first day of the New Year. I love New Years! It is a fresh start and I love the feeling that brings!!

When I think about a New Year, I can't help but stop and thank God for all the blessings He brought my family in 2008. He has given me the most selfless, hard-working, and patient man I could have ever asked for and I know I often take that for granted. Our two boys are another blessing that amazes me every day. I was thinking earlier today that I think we understand a little bit more about God's love when we have our own children and it makes me appreciate the sacrifice He made for me even more. Having an awesome extended family that loves spending time together is something for which I am grateful. Also, I thank God for jobs, a home, and all the many, many other blessings He continues to give. I couldn't imagine if I had to live next year without Him in my life. Good thing we don't have to worry about that!

I don't really like to make "resolutions," because I always seem to break them. So, I won't make "resolutions," but rather goals. This year, first and foremost, I hope to get to know God in a much closer way than I ever have before. I intend to read my bible, study, and pray more every day. I also want to be a more devoted wife and mother because I believe that is what God has called me to do. I want to spend more quality time appreciating the ones I love. Lastly, I would like to exercise more (well any at all would be more I guess) and make better choices about what I eat.

That pretty much sums up my "goals" for the year. As we embrace this new year, I leave you with this verse:

"No, dear brothers and sisters, I am still not all I should be, but I am focusing all my energies on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I strain to reach the end of the race and receive the prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us up to heaven."

Philippians 3:13-14