~BEST CHRISTMAS PRESENT EVER~

 My sweet little Grandma Elene was diagnosed with cancer almost a year ago and the odds were against her right from the start.  As Christmas rolled around we knew she wouldn't be with us much longer so our parents did the most wonderful thing and flew all of her grandchildren home to be with her in the same room all together one last time.  The moments was priceless.....one of those moments I will never ever forget.  Tears were shed by all and the love and spirit in the room was one you can't explain.

 Not many people get to have the relationship I do with their grandparents.  My Grandma is a fighter but we know she will soon be returning to our Heavenly Father and family above.

One of my favorite pictures of all time......It's not that it's a great picture with great quality but it's with my siblings, my best friends, my partners in crime, my childhood, 4 people I love more than anything.  We haven't had just the 5 of us in a car all together since we were kids heading to Logan probably hahaha!!!!

 HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO CARSON AND CARA......14 AND 10.  WE HAVE 2 IN THE DOUBLE DIGITS NOW!!!!

Carson decided not to have a party and to take the money and run!!!!!  He was happy with cash and a cake.  He's pretty easy! Cara decided to go see the movie Frozen with some friends and then head to Starbucks after for hot chocolate. So glad that we get to celebrate these two back to back.  It makes the month of December crazy but we kind of like crazy around here.  Sure love my two C's!

DECEMBER-PARTY HARDY!!!

 Christmas piano recital.  The kids played at an "old folks home" this year.  I loved the idea, and it was so fun to see the faces of the residents.  They could care less if you mess up or if you're nervous.  They just love the company.  The kids did great!!!!  Thanks to Angela Darby for being such a patient teacher, especially with our chaotic schedule.

 The Collierville Christmas tree and square lighting.  Love the little town of Mayberry that I live in!

 NVS dance Christmas party.  Always a fun time with Ryleigh's dance friends.

 Evan's first trip to see and Santa....and maybe his last.  This was as close as he got before he had a crazy meltdown!

 Carson's December was filled with basketball tournaments. Evan is one of his biggest fans. He can't wait to play ball like "Tonens"!!!

 My sister Alyson came out to run the St. Jude marathon and Carson and I were going to run the 5k......Unfortunately it was cancelled due to ice storms. My heart was broken for Alyson. I know she had put so much time and effort into this.  She's so tough and motivated though, that I know she'll do it again.

 Carson ready for his first church dance.  Said it was the most boring night ever.  Not sure if he's just telling me that to get out of the next one, or if it really was??????

 4 words-----Favorite part of Christmas!!!!!

Kids at the church Christmas party.  Thanks Brother New for always being the most perfect Santa!

SELFIE SUNDAY!!!

 Roadtrippin' to Atlanta for Thanksgiving

We always love a good road trip, especially when it's to see family.  We headed out to Atlanta to spend time with Scott, Kim, Blake and Sarah.  My kids love being with their cousins.  It doesn't take much to entertain them.  All they need is the PS3, good food and an occasional game of Twister to make them happy.

 We braved the Lennox Mall the day after Thanksgiving.  We lasted 15 minutes and then decided to try again the next day.  Craziness!!!

 We visited the new LEGOland in the Atlanta Mall.  Even though his face doesn't really show it, Evan loved it!!!

 While we were there, we celebrated Cara's birthday.  My kids rarely get to celebrate birthdays with cousins so that was extra special for her, topped off with a bright purple cake-her favorite!

Rees cousins....well missing a few, but this was better than nothing. Sure can't wait to see the rest of the clan in May in Gatlinburg.

 MY SMILEY RYLEIGH GETS BAPTIZED

We're so proud of our sweet Ryleigh and her decision to be baptized a member of

 The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. 

Ryleigh had a wonderful day.  Her baptism was short and sweet.  Carson and Cara were the speakers and her friends in the neighborhood and classmates at church sang "If the Savior Stood Beside Me." It was perfect.  She was lucky enough to have her Grandma Shauna there too to help celebrate in her big day.  We love you Ryleigh.  You are a beautiful daughter of our Heavenly Father.  Continue to do what is right, love your family, love the gospel and love your Heavenly Father. 

SUIT AND TIE