Sunday, December 28, 2008

An extra present for the family

My brother and his wife Jill received and extra Christmas present-- Alexandria Joy Coil was born a few weeks early on December 26th around 3:30 in the morning. She is a little over 5 lbs and 19 inches. She also has huge feet like her dad. Mom and baby are doing well.



The other exciting news is my sister Lindsey is carrying her 4th baby and she and Cory have requested that we all hope and pray she has a boy to add to their 3 girls. She is due in July around the time Corbin comes home from his mission. We are so happy and excited for them.

Santa Made a Visit

The kids had a great time and were super happy with all that Santa brought. Mike and I were amazed that they didn't wake up until after 7:00. We are so blessed. Hope all of our friends and loved ones had a wonderful holiday and a wonderful new year!!!

Monday, December 22, 2008

Snow fun and Fondue

I am obsessed with Rachel Ray and look forward to the new magazine every month. This month featured a story about snow activities and then cheese fondue for lunch. The kids and Mike played in the snow while I cooked the fondue. It was super yummy and perfect for a cold day.

Building and snow fort with the fire pit keeping them warm.



Enjoying Lunch



Here is the recipe:

1 1/4 pounds baking potatoes, sliced lengthwise into 1/2-inch-thick wedges
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Salt and pepper
12 ounces gruyère cheese, shredded (3 cups)
1 tablespoon plus 2 teaspoons cornstarch
1 clove garlic, halved
1 cup plus 2 tablespoons dry white wine
1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
1 pinch ground nutmeg

1. Preheat the oven to 450°. In a large bowl, toss the potatoes and oil. Sprinkle generously with salt and arrange in a single layer on a parchment-paper-lined baking sheet. Roast, turning once, until browned.
2. Meanwhile, in a medium bowl, mix together the cheese and cornstarch. Rub the cut sides of the garlic on the inside of a fondue pot or heavy 2-quart saucepan; discard the garlic. Add the wine and lemon juice and bring to a boil over medium heat. Cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the cheese mixture, then cook for 1 minute. Stir in the nutmeg and season with salt and pepper. Serve warm with the roasted potatoes for dipping.

Christmas Concerts

McKenna had a solo as an elf---she did great.



Jackson sang well and played the drum for "The Little Drummer Boy".



Christmas in NYC

Carriage ride in Central Park--it was freezing.



The famous tree---it was beautiful.



Rockettes at Radio City Music Hall---those girls can kick!



My Angels



Lunch rink side at Rockefeller Plaza



My favorite treat--cupcakes from Magnolia bakery.




Lunch at Rolf's--the entire ceiling is covered in ornaments, garland and lights.



Wreaths on the sidewalk

Thanksgiving in Detroit



We loaded the car and headed to Detroit to visit Mikes dad and step-mom who are serving a mission for the LDS church. We had a great time visiting, eating and relaxing. The drive wasn't bad. We learned Ohio has really great rest stops and there is not much in Pennsylvania. We read, watched movies and played rounds and rounds of the alphabet game----trucks work great for the letters Q and Z!!!

Thanksgiving Dinner



Jackson had more desserts than turkey



Cute Kids!!!



Ride the horsey into town---favorite thing to do with Grandpa Bob!!



Grandma Jan is so strong. You should how many push ups she can do!



The GM building in downtown Detroit--72 stories high.



Detroit People Mover Station--loved the bright colors.

Tuesday, December 2, 2008

Maelee Baby



Just wanted to let you all know of something I am doing. A friend of mine from high school has started a diaper bag company. I am helping her sell them out here in my area. They are great bags, made well and feature a new idea. The inside is customizable with self-adhesive labels to remind you where everything is.They are fashinable enough to use as a large purse and/or travel bag after the baby is grown. Please check out the website and let me know if you are interested. Please tell your friends and family. Visit www.maeleebaby.com for information and other products. New products will be arriving in Janurary of '09.