Christmas is here and past.

We started the holiday season off by Evan and family coming home on the 23rd. Stayed home and enjoyed the visit. Xmas Eve had a few errands to do and picked up a JD RC Tractor for Zade. Met my Mom in Foristel to exchange some gifts so she could take them to the farm. Plus she had two trays of cookies to give us for the holiday season. My MOM rocks.! Later that evening went to Mary and Kevins for Eve celebration with Laurie's family.

Xmas morning woke up and told Laurie that Santa had come it was time open gifts. That was 6:30 she wasn't to thrilled, but we had to what anyway. Went to pick up the kids around 10 came back and the chaos began. Enjoyed a late brunch and playing with the kids new toys/gadgets. Yes I'm a big kid at heart. Prepared big dinner later in the day and it was nice just to enjoy everyone's company.

Monday the 26th went to Cracker Barrel for breakfasts with Evan, kids Mary and UK. After returning Evan and family got ready to depart. He's got a big decision to make in the next few weeks not sure if he wants to stay in the Air Force or not. Economy stinks, jobs aren't plentiful. So being 22, married and a father he's really stressed. I know he'll make the best decision for his family. I'm really proud of how he handles such tough situations.

The rest of the week I was on vacation. The kids and I just bummed around. Went shopping to redeem some gift cards. Got me a few new lures and fishing pole. Rem got a new pocket knife, sling shot and lures. Karly picked out three new shirts. Tonight we finally have Christmas with my Mom and the kids can't wait...Till tomorrow.

Time to play catch up....

While staying focused on my family and work I have had quit a roller coaster ride the last six months. July was all about hiking. Making a visit to Oklahoma to see my Uncle Chris who is diagnosed with brain cancer and celebrate my grandson Zades 1st Birthday.

August was about the hiking again. School started for the kids and with them both in sports the fun begins. Remington was in Cross Country and Karly volleyball. September started the rough ride for the next three months. My grandmother's brother Phil Clark from Carthage Il. was killed while riding his bike. He was 87 a WWII vet an avid conservationist and most importantly a farmer. I hiked a few more times this month but this would be the last for the year. We also received word that there is nothing else they can do for Uncle Chris' cancer.

October was well just october, made a few trips to the farm and cut a lot of brush. Evan and family made a trip up for the weekend is always nice to see them and our big one year old. At the end of the month my Grandmothers sister Rosie past away she was 89.

Here comes November. Remington and I went to the farm for youth deer season, and to be with my grandparents. All the rest of my family went to Oklahoma as we got word the end is near for my Uncle. Deer season was a wash, we only seen one deer in two days of hunting. Celebrated Lauries b-day. Than also got the call from my mother that Uncle Chris had passed he was 56. Went to Oklahoma for services and had another service the following week in Peaksville. Had Thanksgiving with family in Quincy at Uncle Phils house.

Finally December is here. Remington is playing basketball through the winter and shopping begins.