April Adventures: Popcorn, Fundraisers, and Ketchup Wars {April 2025}

April came and went in a blur, full of little excitements, big milestones, and plenty of love in between.

Radar continues to hold the crown as the love of our life. Honestly, how did we ever do family without him? 🐾

Nate has kept us laughing this month. He asked his “not-a-girlfriend” Brooke to the school dance, and her cute response melted us all. Watching him navigate life with humor (and a little charm) is one of my favorite things.

Speaking of Nate (and Jess), the two of them have discovered that ketchup wars are a guaranteed way to drive their mom insane. One spark of provocation and suddenly it’s a mad dash for the bottle—mess everywhere, laughter everywhere else.

On my end, teaching is went well.  It got easier as the year went on. April marked the halfway point of the second semester. Hard to believe I'd almost made it through my first year!

Jessica had an incredible month too. She stepped up to organize a bottle drive fundraiser for the Challenger baseball program here in town—and raised over $800! Her initiative and heart for others made me so proud.

After months of searching and more than a few failed attempts, we finally found Jessica’s grad dress at a little boutique in Diamond City. It was worth the wait—she looked absolutely stunning.

April also brought some tender moments. Uncle Aaron’s health declined rapidly as "C" took its toll. In the midst of it all, he still thought of us—sending multiple bags of popcorn and muddy buddies for everyone to enjoy. Such a simple, yet deeply touching act of love.

April was fast, full, and a little bit messy (thanks, ketchup). But it was also filled with hope, family, and so much love. And really, that’s what matters most. 💛

Jessica’s Birthday: Laughter, Love, and a Box of Tampons

Jessica’s birthday this year was the perfect mix of cozy, chaotic, and completely her.

Grayson gifted her an electric blanket—a thoughtful, snuggle-approved win that instantly earned him boyfriend points. Nothing says “I love you” quite like the gift of never being cold again.

Nate, on the other hand… took a different approach. In true big brother fashion, he presented Jess with every inappropriate gift he could find, from eyebrow-raising novelties to—you guessed it—a box of tampons. And the best part? Jess actually appreciated it. Because when you’ve got siblings who know you well, even the ridiculous gifts hit right.

Among the jokes and laughter, we managed to squeeze in one of my favorite traditions: our mother-daughter dinner in Waterton. It’s a yearly ritual I treasure—a quiet little pause to celebrate her, just the two of us, with mountains in the background and meaningful conversation over dinner. The perfect way to reflect on how lucky I am to be her mom.

Another year older, another year more amazing. Happy Birthday, Jess—you’re one of a kind, and we wouldn’t have it any other way.

 

Family Day Weekend: Snow, S’mores, and Sling Adventures - {March 2025}

This Family Day weekend, we did what we do best—bundle up (well, most of us), head out, and make the most of the time we have together.

Abby came down to visit (always a win!), and we decided to brave the elements for a winter wiener roast in Waterton. There’s something about roasting hot dogs and marshmallows with your boots in the snow and smoke in your eyes that just makes it feel like family.

Of course, Nate dressed for the weather… or at least the weather he wished it was. Let's just say fashion over function was alive and well. Meanwhile, Jess managed the entire snowy adventure with one arm in a sling, proving once again that she’s a trooper with or without full mobility. Honestly, the girl didn’t miss a beat.

We missed Sam, as we always do on days like this. His absence is felt in quiet ways—the missing laugh, the jokes we know he’d make... But I’m proud that we gave it a go, even with that space at the table (or in this case, the snowy log by the fire).

Family Day might not always look perfect—but this one was warm in all the right ways.

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. 🎄🎅🎁