We have been through a lot of stuff last year and it is continuing this year. Last November we had to get our roof replaced. We were having a lot of leaks from all the rain, hail and wind we had experienced. We had it done just in time for a pipe to break in the pantry which caused some flood damage to the carpet and the pantry floor. We ended up having some asbestos and had to be in a hotel for a week for the cleanup. After being home for a week, we had to go back again to the hotel for the installation of flooring. Now our tile in the pantry does not match the floor to the kitchen and the new carpet does not match the ugly carpeting in the rooms. Makes the house look all uneven. But I am grateful that we were able to get these things repaired.
DJ finally got the window in his smile when 'Wiggles' the tooth finally came out after a little coaxing from yours truly. That front tooth had been loose for months and I have been waiting to get the opportunity to use my dental skills in this extraction! Of course, the tooth fairy came and she delivered a crisp $1.00 bill and a new hot wheel which he lost the same day.
WITH WIGGLES
WITHOUT WIGGLES
We did have some snow this last winter, not as much as I would've liked but enough that we got to go sledding during a BIG snowstorm. Roads were closed due to this storm, but this did not deter Dave. He was determined to have this experience! I on the other hand like to err on the side of caution and wanted to go back home, but I am thankful that we got to experience the awesome storm by sledding despite almost getting stuck. The kids as usual were up for the experience. They are so fearless. So much like their dad. Was I ever fearless? I don't remember. My life is a big worry after another. Trying to show the kids all of nature and the fun that could be had and inside I am worrying about their well being, their comfort, and all the possible hazards. Being a responsible adult does suck a lot sometimes.
Another yearly tradition (3rd year running), was going up to Taos Ski Valley for the Not Forgotten Outreach Ski weekend for Veterans. We had great weather, did some snowboarding without lessons for me and the kids, and had a great time. Yvie was a little more apprehensive this year than last year. Not sure if she wanted to do it and was a little whiny. DJ on the other hand was 'balls to the walls!' Last year he was the cautious, apprehensive one, but this time he went on the ski lifts and took tumbles and got right back up. I thought Yvie was giving me gray hairs, but now the combination of these two are definitely giving them to me!
Flagstaff was on our must see places, especially now since Christopher started college at NAU. We decided to go on President's day weekend, which also happened to be Valentine's weekend as well. The weather was warm, in the high 60s. Chris and the kids had a great time spending time together. Dave and I had an opportunity to go out by ourselves, thanks to Chris staying with the kids watching movies. We also took time to go mountain biking in Sedona. Poor DJ did not like all the uphill. We had to walk a lot because his little legs couldn't pedal going uphill, but he sure did like the downhill and the switchbacks. I don't have a ton of skills, but I have flipped over many a handlebar learning what not to do and I was trying to show/teach DJ how to best maneuver his way down. Not sure if he paid much attention, but I know I had a great time! Yvie, on the other hand, was on the trail a bike connected to Dave. She finally was able to reach the pedals! Yay! Dave had a hard time pedaling with her and is now going to work with her to learn how to ride DJ's old bike. If she does well, I just might buy her a new bike!
DJ is on the cusp of making his First Reconciliation and First Holy Communion. We went shopping today for his outfit and his banner for the church. I started to get teary eyed while we were doing this. He is growing up so fast and I would like to freeze frame these little moments. I am so proud of him. Learning about his religion, and following through on his journey has been more important to me than I realized. Yvie has started religious education as well and likes her classes and learning about Jesus and God. She is just so curious and full of life. I hope she doesn't change the cute things that make Yvie who she is.
DJ is on the cusp of making his First Reconciliation and First Holy Communion. We went shopping today for his outfit and his banner for the church. I started to get teary eyed while we were doing this. He is growing up so fast and I would like to freeze frame these little moments. I am so proud of him. Learning about his religion, and following through on his journey has been more important to me than I realized. Yvie has started religious education as well and likes her classes and learning about Jesus and God. She is just so curious and full of life. I hope she doesn't change the cute things that make Yvie who she is.
