Holiday Program at the girl's school.

 Emma had to do a little speech and had to learn it over night. 

She was a little nervous but did a wonderful job.

 The girl who was suppose to do it got sick.

 Emma joined the chorus and had to give up most of her lunch hour so that they could practice for the holiday program.  We are so proud of her.

 Lauren rocking out the new boots for her songs.

Lauren getting ready for her potluck in her classroom.

Some holiday baking with Grandma's recipe.

We love making cut out cookies.  Can't wait to frost them.

Santa Monica 5K Christmas Run

 Emma and Emilie ready for their 5K run.

 Running with friends Deb and Brady.

 Emma out front, this is a piece of cake.

 Emma finished the 3.5 mi run in 39 mins 29 sec.  I think we have a runner in the family.

Very proud of everyone finishing the race, next race I will run in (maybe).

Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night.

Merry Christmas everyone.

Toto wants to wish everyone a merry xmas, too.

Santa's here!!!!

A kiss for all of our loved ones.

Emma's new instrument for school.

Morgan's Wedding during harvest and a weekend trip to Santa Barbara

The two most beautiful bridesmaids of cousin Morgan's Wedding.

Practicing before the big wedding.

I never wear dresses, but I will wear one for Morgan.

Doing some horse back riding in Santa Barbara.

"Take our picture Daddy."

The whole family enjoyed a great day on horses.  Lauren can't wait to do it again.

First Day of School in California!!!

Can't wait for school.

We love our backpacks.

We love our house.

This is our school.

Lauren's 2nd grade teacher Ms. Nichols

Emma's 4th grade teacher Miss Wong.

Doing a little reading after school in our new patio chairs.

Labor Day in Iowa

The girls got to spend 2 weeks in Iowa this summer, going back and fourth between Grandparents.  It was their birthday present from us to them, and they loved it.  Labor Day landed on the end of their vacation in Iowa.  So Emilie and I flew back to pick them up and spend time (like always) at the steam engine show, that she has done for years.  During the time back Grandma Cathy hosted a birthday party for the girls at a camp ground and Grandpa John had to give the girls a hay ride for their birthday.  It was a great turn out and thank you all for coming and spending time with us on their birthday.  It was great seeing everybody and thank you very much for a great party, Grandma Cathy and Grandpa John.

What a awesome birthday cake for the two of us.

Grandma Cathy didn't know Emma doesn't like chocolate cake, so she made a quick trip and got Emma some cupcakes to enjoy.  

Grandpa John's hay ride was excellent!!!

They are growing up too fast.

Movie star picture time during the hay ride.

Also during our time back, Emilie hosted a bridal shower for her cousin Morgan, who is getting married in October.  CONGRATULATIONS

Lauren got to try on her flower girl dress, and she loves it!!!

At the end of our trip Emilie and Morgan got to ride on this old steam engine tractor, which is part of their family, during the parade of tractors at the end of the show.  What a great way to end our trip.

Celebrating Lauren's 7th Birthday in sunny California!!!

"Bring me my gifts, please."

"I love new hats, don't I look cool?"

New clothes for school.

I also love new bags.

My American Girl Doll PJ's

More American Girls doll clothes so we both can match.

Can't leave home without my doll.
 Got to keep her in the shade so she doesn't burn.

Love my new beach hat, keeps the sun out of my eyes (I also look cute, too).

"Pull sister, it's my birthday.  You have to do what I say."

We found our new beach at Malibu.  It is perfect.

Having a little cake with our new friends.

What a way to end the day.
 I had a wonderful birthday and a fabulous day.
 Thanks for everything.
I hope my wish comes true, but I'm not telling.

Having fun in the neighborhood.

Playing spy games with friends Shane and Zoe.

Lauren acting cool with her walkie talkie.

Doing a little diving at Gracie's house.

Got to love friends that have pools during the summer, keeps the girls entertained.

Emma jumping off the board, always plug your nose before going in.