"cute" is a bad word!

For the last six months or so, Jack and Nathaniel have decided that when they are called "cute" that it is a bad thing. They think that only puppies and babies are cute; big boys are definitely not cute! They get quite upset and demand to be called "cool" instead (in a very serious face). I'm sure it has something to do with having a few older siblings, but it just cracks me up! So, be warned...if you call them cute you might get quite a nasty look your way.

Pinewood Derby

Nicholas had a great time at the Pinewood Derby, racing his car, "Doom". He won the prize for Best Metallic Paint Job!

Our trip to the East Coast

Dave and I had a wonderful opportunity to head out to the East
Coast last week. We went to "Colonial Williamsburg" in Virginia for a few days, visited Washington DC, and spent a night in Philadelphia.

This is the Governor's Palace where after the American Revolution, Patrick Henry and Thomas Jefferson both resided at different times as governors.

This is an example of what people ate in colonial times...notice the delicious calf's head in the center? Makes you hungry doesn't it?

The people who work and live here are so knowledgable about the history of this nation. There is just this amazing feeling when you're there, realizing all the sacrifice from our forefathers
to bring to pass our freedom in this country; and to be able to stand where they once stood.

Okay, I just had to show you how green Viginia is even in the dead of winter, which was about 45 degrees. Surprisingly it doesn't get that cold out there. This is the garden behind the Governor's Palace.

I just loved this picture; there are two people sitting outside dressed in Colonial times.

Dave and I were surprised at how much smaller the White House is in person. Washington DC is amazing, and the next time we're taking the whole family for at least a week...

there is so much to do and see.

Okay, well you can't go to Philly and not get an authentic Cheesesteak from Geno's!

We had an absolute blast being together and came home on my birthday to find our wonderful children and their awesome grandparents waiting for us. I have to say, absence does make the heart grow fonder.. Jack snuggled with me for a long time the next day and said, "Mom, I just need you." Just what I needed!

Brothers

Mmmm... makes me sleepy just looking at this picture. I love it! I love that in a family, your oldest child can still snuggle up and fall asleep with the youngest one.

Christmas Eve at the Manwarings

We love our family and friends, and we hope you have a wonderful Christmas!

The Duke of Christmas says, "Let the festivities begin!"

(As far as dogs go, Apollo is a sell-out!)

The most wonderful time of the year!

These were taken at our Ward Christmas party...Nate cried when he sat on Santa's lap.

I love this picture of Lauren!


We had lots of fun making the gingerbread house...I do believe that's chocolate on Nicholas face.

Gratitude

I think for most of us, this time of year gets us thinking what we're grateful for. This year I feel especially grateful for the blessings we've received. I thank my Heavenly Father every day for healthy, beautiful children and a husband who's willing to work multiple jobs to support his family.

My heart is full when I think of the valiant men and women serving this country, so that we may continue to be free.

Many of my extended family members and friends have lost every possesion they own, except for each other. The amazing thing I have found, is that they are still happy because they know what is most important in this life, and it has nothing to do with possesions.

I'm grateful for my membership in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.

I'm also grateful for the personal life lessons I've learned over this last year; it has changed who I am forever.