Gaga Leaving on a Jet Plane

Oh, how this day came way too fast! It always does even though each time it's hard to remember. We did some fun, happy, sad, exciting, crafty, relaxing, learning, exploring things while she was here and we cherish them all. We love having her here during her usual winter trip. I (we) are so thankful for the time she spends away from Daddy Don to enjoy time with us. Until next winter!

AJ's Baptism

This has been a long time coming for Jackson. So many times we discussed this in the past and he would get excited about it, but would then back down and say he just wasn't ready. I admire him for knowing in his heart that he wasn't ready in the past and just praying and thinking about it for some time.

We put off the first chance for him to be baptized because we knew that my mom would be here for the next scheduled baptism at church. He was so excited and ready when this day finally came!

Our sweet boy...so proud...and happy! This is a journey that we will take together, learn together, and enjoy. There will be good days, and bad days, but know that no matter what God is always with you and in your heart. We are so happy for you, AJ!

London Trip

When my mom is here we alway do a trip together for a little get-away. This time since the Hammers are in Spain, Julie joined us! It was so much fun to explore the city together and spend some girl time away. Since I am behind on my posts here are just a few to show. I'll post more later when I get pictures together.

I loved seeing Westminster Abbey again. What a beautiful place to explore and learn more about!

On Valentine's night we saw "Billy Elliot" on broadway. I haven't seen a show in years so it was fun to do it again. The show was fantastic and funny. We all had a little issue with understanding their accents at times, but for the most part we loved it.

The Tower Bridge view during our walk along the Thames.

What?!?

Jackson came home from school today and said, "Mom, I asked a girl to be my Valentine." My mind was screaming with what?! this can't be happening, but with a calm voice I asked who the girl was.
He then proceeded to tell me it was Mia who we also go to church with. Jackson said he was going to pick out a special present to give her since she is now his Valentine and soon after came downstairs with a panda stuffed animal.
My mom and I talked about it and couldn't believe Jackson is "at that point." He said that he beat another boy who also wanted to ask Mia to be his Valentine.
I don't think he knows the extent of what all of this Valentine's stuff means, but it's cute to see him try to figure it all out.

Valentine's with Gaga

Now that my mom is here the kids are long the time with her. She busted out her crafty side to help them with their Valentine's gifts.

Gaga's Here...Surprise!

For many months we have been keeping this secret from the kids. Last time my mom came we thought it would be fun for her to surprise them.

We had it all planned out, but in the end thought it would be best to just have her open the door for the kids when they got back from a walk with Jason and Austin.

The video is not the best quality, but at least you get to see and hear their surprised faces.

We are so excited and thankful for the next month that we get to spend with her!