Minne-SNOW-ta

The boys loved the car ride. It was a total of 31 hours of driving. We stopped quite a few times for bathroom breaks, and leg stretching. They were very well behaved.

Scott and his brother Jonathan. They both like the cold, and would wear shorts and no jackets all the time, if they didn't have to set a good example for their sons.

We were lucky enough to get a little bit of snow while we were there. Yes, a rare picture of me on this blog. We had to borrow the snow brush and scraper to clean off our car.

The roads were terrible. If you don't have experience driving in this weather, I don't recommend it. It was rather enjoyable to see the look on people's faces when they saw our Florida license plate. After all, who in their right mind would leave Florida in winter to go to Minnesota?

Jameson and Teagen loved the snow. They were so excited when they saw it.

It is amazing what God has created. We were so blessed to see the beautiful snow covered world. Though we were wishing for warmer temperatures after the first day.

This is the ice that got pushed up on Mille Lacs Lake. It is rather thick, and very safe to walk, or drive on. I wish we had time to do a little ice fishing.

This is one of many beautiful sunsets we enjoyed.

Gavin put his hand on the glass of the fireplace, and got a big blister on his hand. We took him to the ER, and we have to keep his hand bandaged for a few more days.

Jameson and Teagen had a blast seeing their cousins and grandparents. They didn't mind getting a few presents too.

Gavin did a great job opening his first present.

Gavin loves daddy.

We all had a blast on our vacation. We are looking forward to visiting again. However, we are very happy to be back home in Florida.

SNOW

It has been a while since we have seen this much snow in Minnesota. Maybe it's because I didn't see the gradual changing when the snow was falling. Maybe it's because we drove here from Florida, and I was used to the 60-70 degree weather. I am quite cold right now. Scott and his brother wanted to show everyone that it's not really that cold out. Yes, they are wearing short sleeves, and shorts. It was 14 degrees out, and the huge snow pile behind them is almost over their heads. When I took the picture, I ended up taking a few because the first ones were not clear. I was shivering too much. The snow is beautiful, and I am so happy that we are here and able to experience it again. I am however, ready to go back home to Florida and warm up. I will be posting a lot more pictures soon. It might not be until after Christmas, but they are coming.

Packing

I am packing.

I don't like packing.

There is just so much to remember to bring. I even made a list, and I am not usually a list person.

Things to pack for our Christmas vacation.
-Bible (of course)
-clothes
-jackets/winter stuff
-toiletries
-camera
-computer
-food/snacks
-movies
-presents
-toys/books

I am sure there are many things I don't have on this list that will end up in the car, but that's okay.

What I want to make sure is that we have everything we need. I know I will end up halfway there, and think of something that I have forgotten. It never fails. Has this ever happened to you? What will I forget this time? In the past, I have forgotten my toothbrush, or shampoo. I have even worn my sandles, but forgotten to bring shoes. I am really hoping that this time will be different.

I could use some help. If you think of anything else I can add to my list, let me know.

Wind Chill?

Can you believe it? There was a wind chill warning in Florida today. They were saying the temp could get as 30 degrees. The wind chill would make it colder and everyone should make sure they wear hats and gloves when they go outside.

???????????????

I am sorry to say, but that is not a wind chill.

A wind chill is when there are warnings of frostbite on exposed skin after only a few seconds.

A wind chill is 30 degrees below zero.

A wind chill is when it is dangerous to even go outside.

I just laughed when I heard the weather report here.

First, I couldn't believe how cold it was actually going to get. I didn't think we would have to turn the heat on at all, and last night we did. It actually got a little cold in our place.

Second, Floridians don't even know how lucky they are. Driving in snow is not fun. Trying to breath outside when it's 30 degrees below zero is hard and painful. Your nose hairs freeze.

Third, what is up with this cold weather? I live in Florida, and it's like 40 degrees out. Not at all what I expected. Is this normal?

Good thing I was raised in Minnesota. I am used to this kind of weather. Only thing is, I thought I had moved away from it. Oh no, it followed me. Please don't blame me if it starts snowing in Florida.

I'm Thankful

Because of Thanksgiving just passing, I decided to write about the thing I am most thankful for. Of course there are many things I thank God for every day; the food He has provided, the home He has provided, that He keeps us safe, and all the other everyday miracles He performs. Today I would like to thank God for my Family.
I have an amazing husband. He loves me so much. He does so much for me. He takes care of me. I don’t deserve the love that he pours out to me. I am in awe every day just to know how much he cares. He sacrifices his sleep to give me another hour of rest. He will change dirty diapers all weekend long, just to give me a break from it. He does the dishes, laundry, and many other household duties. I love my husband so much, and I thank God for bringing us together.

God knew exactly what He was doing when He gave us our oldest son, Jameson. He knew we needed him. Jameson is very strong willed. He wants things done his way, and will complain if he doesn’t get it his way. He will also make sure that he wants the exact opposite of what you want. He is very easily upset. He is also one of the sweetest kids ever. He will sit and hold his baby brothers hand for hours, just because he loves him. He will randomly announce to everyone that he loves them. He will talk to complete strangers at the grocery store or anywhere else, and tell them about Jesus. Everyone should have a daily dose of Jameson.

Teagen, our second son has been quite an adventure in himself. When God gave us another boy, I knew I had my work cut out for me. Teagen likes hugs. He needs to be hugged regularly. If he hurts himself, he won’t stop crying until he has a hug. His laugh is contagious. Just try not to laugh after hearing him chuckle. I don’t think it’s possible. He will actually come up to you and ask to be tickled.

Our third son Gavin, has been such a blessing. He is nothing like the other two. Gavin is happy just sitting on my lap. He will play with his brothers, but is happiest when being held. He is a snuggler. He hugs and holds on so tight. I don’t mind, because I love hugs.

I give thanks to God for blessing me with such an amazing family. Not just my husband and kids, but my parents, siblings, in laws, and my church family as well. I had heard people talk about their church families, but never really understood what it meant, until I experienced it for myself.

You guys are great. After leaving our families, and moving, God gave us an amazing gift.