The Legacy Continues

There are few constants in life, not many things you can depend on. One of the few things that never change, though, is my Papa Ace's refrigerator being stocked with mini cans of Tree Top apple juice. Or his insistance that I eat, or take home with me, some nuts.

One of the prevailing memories of my childhood was drinking tiny cans of Tree Top apple juice on the back patio of Ace and Laynie's house. Now, that patio is being used by another family, my grandma has passed away, and Ace lives in an apartment. So much has changed . . . but not the Tree Top! Like the North Star, I tell you. On a recent visit, Papa Ace wouldn't let us leave his apartment without a can of apple juice in each of my kids' hands. Isn't it great that some things never change?

Happy Birthday Jameson!

Happy Birthday Beautiful!

If there is one place I have failed it is in the big sister department. I've always mothered and smothered him more than I should. I've let our age difference become an obstacle rather than an opportunity. And I've been outspoken at times when I should have been supportive. But, all that aside, I adore the kid. We often wonder how we came from the same gene pool, but that is the real beauty of it. He is so many things that I am not, and I genuinely appreciate that. And who can resist his "Blue Steel" pose?


And he is an amazing uncle. Every kid should have an uncle that wrestles with them and chases them around the house. Or tickles them until they cry. Fisher calls him "Mint" for no apparent reason. But we sure love Uncle Mint.

Taylor is Baptized

Saturday was a wonderful day for our family because Taylor Elizabeth got baptized. She looked beautiful in her white dress and looked just like the pefect little angel that she is. It was a warm, sunny autumn day and everything went smoothly. Grandma Donnette was able to speak and Grandma Jody gave a prayer. And Taylor and Loryn sang a sweet little song. We were grateful to have so much family so close that could spend the day with us.

Prick Or Feet?

Halloween happily (or not?) fell on a Saturday this year which meant we faced the tall order of filling the day with activities until it was time to go trick-or-treating. We started off the morning with the breakfast of champions, donuts and chocolate milk. And then proceeded to paint our pumpkins.

After lunch, Megan and Tiffany joined us for what was quite possibly the most pathetic attempt at carmel apples ever performed. They were truly deplorable and disgusting. But we assured ourselves we'd get better with practice. We brightened our day by visiting our Papa Ace and feeding the ducks outside his retirement home.

We ended the night with a quick stroll around the neighborhood for some trick-or-treating. Surprisingly, Fisher loved it and was disappointed he had to stop when his sisters lost their steam. He absolutely would NOT dress up, but he was more than delighted to ring doorbells and shout, "Prick or Feet!"