The night everything changed - Thanks to Raymond {Feb 2025}

It was one of those nights you don’t forget.

Jessica was fired up, playing her heart out against Raymond when—early in the first quarter—something happened. From the sideline, I saw the fall, and I knew. You know that feeling in your gut as a parent when something just isn’t right? This was that.

We headed straight to the ER, where it was confirmed: a broken collarbone. Her season, her momentum, her hard work—suddenly paused in one painful moment. She went home afterward and let the emotions hit, just for a minute. And then, in true Jessica fashion, she pulled herself together and went right back to the gym—to support her team, to cheer on the boys’ game, and to keep showing up, even though she couldn’t play.

As if the night needed more drama, her boyfriend Grayson had to leave his game partway through… for stitches. (C’mon, Raymond, what are you doing to our kids?!)

That night could’ve been all heartbreak. And in a lot of ways, it was. Jessica knew her season was done, and the loss hit hard. But more than anything, it became a testament to her strength. She showed resilience, maturity, and love for her team—choosing to be there even when she couldn't suit up. That’s leadership. That’s grit. That’s my girl.

It wasn’t the night we planned for, but it’s one that revealed her true character—and I couldn't be prouder.

February Feels 💕🏀🚗

February rolled in with good vibes and even better food. We kicked things off with Super Bowl Sunday done right—ribs, nachos, mac and cheese, and plenty of cozy snuggles. (Looking at you, Jess, Grayson, and Radar. 🐾) Honestly, even if you didn’t know who was playing, you knew the snacks were winning.

Basketball season continued strong for Nate and Jess through March, and it was such a joy to watch them both on the court. There’s something extra special about cheering on your people as they hustle and have fun.

Oh—and speaking of adulting milestones: Jess and Nate bought a car! Together! A sweet little 2008 Nissan Versa now has a place in the family, and I couldn’t be more proud of those two. They’re navigating life with such intention (and now, with reliable transportation!). Fingers crossed it treats them well. 🚗💨

And in school news, I celebrated my very first Pink Shirt Day as a teacher! What a powerful reminder of kindness and inclusion. Even better? John and I rocked matching pink. Look at us go—who says teachers can’t be fashionable and festive?

A New Chapter for Grandpa Max - {January 2025}

Earlier this year, Grandpa Max made a big move—from the Chinook to Lee Crest. Like most changes in life, it came with its challenges. The first few months were tough as he adjusted to a new routine, new surroundings, and new faces. It wasn’t always easy, and there were days when the shift felt heavy.

But true to his quiet resilience, Grandpa slowly found his rhythm. With time, patience, and the steady support of family and staff, he began to settle in. 

Watching him navigate this change has been a reminder of how strong and adaptable the human spirit can be—even in life’s later chapters. We’re proud of him, grateful for the care he’s receiving at Lee Crest, and thankful for the small but meaningful signs that he’s finding comfort and peace in this new season.

Change isn’t always easy, but it can still lead us to where we need to be.

 

Post-Christmas Blessings

The days following Christmas brought more than just leftovers and cozy mornings—Jordan, Luci, and their family arrived, and with them came one of the most meaningful experiences of the season.

Libby went through the Cardston temple for the first time, and it was an absolute privilege to be there in support. Being part of that special day—witnessing such a sacred and personal milestone—was a moment I won’t soon forget. There's something incredibly grounding about watching someone you love step into a new chapter with so much faith and grace.

As if that wasn’t enough, we also had the chance to reconnect with the Rausch family. Time with them is always a gift. There’s something about being with family—swapping stories, sharing laughs, and simply being present with one another—that fills up the soul in ways nothing else can.

Grateful for the chance to be surrounded by people we love, and for the sacred moments that make this season feel so full. ❤️

Boxing Day Highlights

1️⃣ We got to talk to SAM!!! Honestly, nothing tops hearing from my missionary—makes my whole season. 💛
2️⃣ Leftover seafood chowder. Need I say more? THIS is why I make seafood on Christmas Eve. #nextlevel
3️⃣ The obligatory (and now officially 2nd annual) polar dip in Waterton Lake. Brrr doesn't begin to cover it. 🥶 Worth it? Maybe. Memorable? Absolutely.

Feeling grateful, frozen, and full. 💙❄️🍲

 

Christmas Eve Chaos and Cheer: A Wild Ride and a Feast to Remember {December 2024}

Well, if you thought Christmas Eve was supposed to be peaceful and calm, think again. Ours was, well, a little bit of everything—stress, joy, and a few moments of "What in the world just happened?!" Here’s the rundown of how our wild ride of a Christmas Eve unfolded:

So there we were, frantically finishing up some last-minute shopping, when suddenly, the universe decided to test my patience. I’m in the parking lot, minding my own business, when—bam—a lady in a monster truck decides to drive straight over the front of Jessica’s car. I kid you not. She didn’t just tap it—she drove over it. The bumper, the hood, the whole shebang.

And here’s the kicker: she didn’t even stop. She kept driving. I stood there for a second, processing the absurdity of it all, then just shrugged. It’s Christmas Eve, after all. So, to the crazy lady in the monster truck: Merry Christmas, I guess. I let it go, because really, what’s a dent in the grand scheme of things? Maybe it’s just the universe reminding me to embrace the chaos.

Okay, now to the real holiday star: Radar. Our lovable pup—who really didn’t have much of a choice—was dressed up in a reindeer costume. I mean, come on, how could I resist? He may not have been thrilled about it, but Radar wore it with pride (or at least with tolerance). It was a sight to behold. I’m pretty sure he was actually questioning his life choices as I snapped a hundred photos, but hey, it wouldn’t be Christmas without a little animal costume action. Merry Christmas, Radar! 🦌

Radar's favorite winter time activity - Sun bathing behind the blinds!

And then—THE FEAST. Christmas Eve dinner is no small affair in our house. This year was no exception. We pulled out all the stops: French onion soup, fresh salad, hearthside bread, steak, lobster, shrimp, mussels, scallops, and more! If you left our table hungry, it was your own fault. We eat on Christmas Eve. And let’s not forget the paper crowns—because what is a proper Christmas dinner without that little touch of royal absurdity? Nothing says “classy holiday dinner” like a paper crown perched atop your head as you dig into a plate full of deliciousness.

                                          

It was especially meaningful this year, as we were all keenly aware that this might be the last Christmas Eve with Grampa. Having him with us at the table was a gift we didn’t take for granted. The laughter, the stories, the occasional grumpy remark about the food—all of it felt extra special. Our hearts were full of gratitude for the time we’ve had with him, and we soaked in every moment.

Of course, as much as we tried to savor the joy of the evening, our thoughts were with Sam, who was celebrating Christmas in Arizona. It’s always tough having a loved one so far away, but we knew he was having his own version of Christmas cheer, and we kept him in our hearts throughout the evening. Next year, buddy. Next year.

So, that was our Christmas Eve—filled with unexpected moments, love, and enough food to feed a small army. From monster truck mishaps to furry reindeer antics, this is what our family Christmas is all about. Merry Christmas, everyone! May your holidays be just as crazy, chaotic, and full of love. 🎄🎅🎁

The Grad Proofs Are In: How Did We Get Here So Fast?!

Okay, let’s just take a moment. The grad proofs for Jessica are in, and I’m not crying, you’re crying. Seriously, how has this moment come so quickly? One minute, I’m holding her hand as she takes her first steps, and now I’m staring at professional photos of her looking so grown up in cap and gown.

I mean, I know we’ve been talking about this day for years, but it hit me in the gut when I opened those grad proofs. There she is—my baby girl—standing tall, smiling that smile I’ve seen a thousand times but never quite like this. The “OMG, she’s graduating” moment is real, people. It’s real, and it’s here. 😭🎓

I don’t even know what to say. I’m proud, overwhelmed, and somehow a little bit in denial that we’re here already. But, man, I can’t wait to see how stunning she’s going to look when it’s the real deal. Until then, I’ll be over here trying not to tear up every time I look at those photos. #TimeFlies #ProudMom #HowDidWeGetHere

Gingerbread Chaos, Candlelight Dinners, and Wisdom Teeth Shenanigans {December 2024}

Well, December’s wrapping up, and as usual, it’s been a whirlwind of holiday chaos, traditions, and a little bit of extra joy. It’s time to catch up on some of the most memorable moments that made this December one for the books (and, dare I say, a little bit wilder than usual). Buckle up, here comes the rundown!

Let’s kick things off with the gingerbread house competition. If you know Jessica and Grayson, you know they don’t just make gingerbread houses. Oh no, no, no. They took the challenge to heart. We’re talking about elaborate architectural masterpieces with frosting that could rival the top-tier bakeries of Paris.

What did I contribute, you ask? Well, I stuck to my usual role: sitting back, sipping hot cocoa, and pretending not to notice when things got “competitive.” There may or may not have been frosting wars, the occasional gingerbread roof collapse, and one dramatic moment where Grayson nearly threw the whole thing out because of one crooked wall. But in the end, they both proudly displayed their “creations,” which, let’s be real, were basically just sugar-coated chaos in house form.

Next up, our ongoing tradition of dinner by candlelight all through December. Nothing says “festive” like eating dinner by flickering candles and pretending you’re in a Christmas movie, right? Sure, the kids grumble about the lack of overhead lighting (because apparently the ability to see what’s on your plate is important?), but hey—it’s a family tradition that’s here to stay. It adds just enough romance and just enough chaos to make even the simplest dinner feel like a special event. It's the little things that makes this season unforgettable.

Oh, and speaking of unforgettable… Abby came home just in time to bless us all with her famous Saramele (Romanian cabbage rolls). Let me tell you—this is not just food. It’s an experience. A heavenly, meaty, saucy, rolled-up experience that makes you wonder how you’ve lived your life without it.

Every time Abby makes her Saramele, we basically just sit down, eat until we’re in a food coma, and talk about how we should probably make it more often (but we never do, because let’s be real—it’s a labor of love). So thank you, Abby, for saving us from the ordinary. You always manage to make every meal feel like a celebration.

Now, if you thought this December was chill, then you haven’t heard about the epic saga of Jess and Nate getting their wisdom teeth removed on the same day. Yes, you heard me correctly. Both of them, on the same day, in the same car, off to get those teeth yanked.

As a mom, I took immense joy in purchasing their surgery T-shirts—because if they were going to be sedated, they might as well do it in style. Actually, we were on the way to Lethbridge when I remembvered the instruction for them to each wear short sleeve shirts for easier administration of IVs etc. They only had long sleeve hoodies on, so I was forced to run into WallMart and find something for them both. I didn't have long to choose, but I think I found the best designs for the moment. 

But the real fun began when they came home. Watching these two sedated psychos navigate recovery together was like witnessing a live-action sitcom. Jess could not stop crying, agonizing over the fact that the nurses "just did such a good job and she never got to thank them."  Meanwhile, Nate, who had somehow morphed into a philosopher, kept asking deep questions like "What's wrong with Jessica?"  At one point, I looked back to find the two of them practicing how to flip ME the bird. Their fingers were not quite doing what they wanted them to. I can’t tell you how much I enjoyed every second of that chaos.     It was pure gold.