The family gathered on Sunday over at Anne and Mark's for a yummy dinner (thanks guys!) and a visit with Dad & Christy who were in town for a Conference.  We listened to Whitney Houston tunes (she died over the weekend at the age of 48) and watched a few snowflakes fall (they didn't stick).  As…

Those of you who know me well know that I am always up for a good bargain.  I've been eyeing people's hair these days and noticing this trend of shiny-silky-straight hair, of which my thick, coarse, wavy hair has never been.  My hair stylist said "You would be a good candidate for a keratin treatment…

We've had a long-standing no tv on Sundays rule.  It's not that we're opposed, just that we decided a long time ago to try to use our time better on the Sabbath, and so far it's worked.  TV is such a big part of our lives (particularly me) during the week, that it feels appropriate to…

Well…she did it.  She up and left me.  She said she was going to, but part of me chose not to believe it.  We spent every chance we got with them – usually eating (Kotta, Sullivan's, etc.).  Then the dreaded departure this past Monday started to get closer…and closer, and it hit me.  She was really…

Caleb has had a busy month of projects!  First, he had to research and create a diorama of an arctic animal.  He chose the leopard seal and had all kinds of creative plans for his diorama (that I unsuccessfully tried to squash to save myself).  We had a good time (that's an exaggeration, but this…

Shelley and I put our *amazing* brains together and decided to throw a Texas-themed party for the Hicken's who have lived here for 17 years.  At the time I think we thought we were throwing the party for them (and it was, technically).  But it was also for us.  It was a way for us…

Whoa, boy, do you have some reading to do!!  I've been super busy today trying to blog like crazy.  So get reading already! Sooner Party Samuel's 5th Birthday Party A Christmas Carol Christmas Eve 2011 Christmas Morning Christmas Afternoon Christmas with Papa C and Mimi H/D/S Christmas Get Together Bank Fraud Fun Family Day New…

We took a family bike ride, flew a kite, worked on a pinewood derby car and relaxed.  Nice.

We had the rare opportunity to get together with my mom's sister's family here at our house last Sunday.  Here is the cast of characters:  My mom (who had just had foot surgery two days before) + her husband, Steve… …her children: Meredith (that's me!) + family, Mark + family, and Michael + family My aunt…

Every month we get a magazine published by the church just for children, called The Friend.  My Caleb loves it – and he always asks if we can make the fun recipes that are there each month.  This month I agreed since I happened to have all the ingredients on hand one Sunday afternoon.  It…