January - Buzzer Beaters and Bridal Shower

January came in hot… and by hot, I mean squeaking sneakers and echoing gym whistles.

This month belonged almost entirely to basketball. We cheered on Jessica from afar—refreshing score updates like it was our full-time job—and proudly watched Nate in person, perfecting our very professional sideline stance (arms crossed, nodding knowingly, whispering things like “great hustle!” and “Box out!”). January may not have given us much daylight, but it certainly gave us plenty of court time. 

Somewhere between tip-offs and timeouts, we managed a quick getaway to Claresholm to host a bridal shower for my niece, Ella Rausch. And honestly, what a lovely change of pace to swap gym shoes for charcuterie boards. It was such a joy to celebrate Ella and shower her with love, laughter, and just the right number of wedding-themed games (because one must never go too far).

All in all, January was a full-court press of family, fun, and fast breaks. We may not have improved our vertical jump, but our cheering stamina is definitely in mid-season form.

Onward to February… where we will likely continue to ask, “What time is the game?” 🏀

Boxing Day in Waterton: Cold Water, Warm Hearts

Boxing Day this year found us packing up and heading to Waterton, a tradition that’s quickly become one of my favourite ways to close out Christmas. Sam and Paisley couldn’t be with us this time, which we definitely felt, but Grayson was able to come along—and that alone made the trip feel special.

We started the day the best way possible: bundled up, laughing, and roasting hot dogs together. There’s just something about food over a fire in the winter that makes everything taste better and slows life down in the best way.

Then came the main event: the 3rd Annual Polar Dip into Waterton Lake. Now, to be fair, the weather wasn’t the worst we’ve ever faced—but do not be fooled. The water was unbelievably cold. The kind of cold that steals your breath and makes you question all of your life choices.

I went in up to my shoulders and lasted—honestly—only a couple of seconds before retreating. Abby, John, Grayson, and Jessica braved it a little longer and deserve full credit for their courage. Nate, on the other hand, offered some excellent fake pump-up energy…and then didn’t go in at all. 😂

By the time it was over, we were all buzzing—laughing, exhilarated, proud of ourselves, and very ready for warmer clothes and hot drinks. There’s something about doing something a little uncomfortable together that makes the joy afterward even sweeter.

The rest of Christmas break unfolded just as it should: resting, relaxing, visiting with family, and soaking up time together. No rushing. No pressure. Just gratitude.

I feel incredibly blessed—for traditions, for togetherness, and for moments like these that remind me how full my heart really is. 💙

Christmas Day - Blessed to be together

Christmas Day was wonderfully relaxing. For the first time ever, the kids slept in. It was shortly after 9:30 a.m. when everyone finally wandered upstairs, breaking through the wrapping paper and moseying over to their stockings. Also—for the first time ever—Amazon (ahem… Santa) delivered everything on time, with no “IOUs” to unwrap. Well done, Santa.

After breakfast pizza, we went to visit Grandpa. It was special to be with him as a family. I love him so much, and now that he lives in a seniors’ home, I don’t see him as often. For so many years, our Christmases revolved around him, and this marked the first Christmas he wasn’t able to join us. That absence was felt.

The rest of the day was spent relaxing—watching movies and playing games. I love this family so much, and it’s exciting to think about how we will continue to grow and evolve together. I will forever be grateful for this year and for the season we were blessed to share.

Christmas Eve - A toast to a perfect night!

Christmas Eve was everything it should be—full, festive, and overflowing with togetherness. Our annual lobster night did not disappoint: brisket, potato wedges, French onion soup, lobster, mussels, crab, and shrimp made for an absolutely delightful dinner.

Paisley gave us the sweetest surprise of the night. We thought she was sick and unable to join us, but just after the six of us sat down at the table, she walked through the door. Pure joy all around.

This year, I assigned everyone a small “dinner task.” Nate was in charge of frequent toasts and, as expected, he did not disappoint. John was supposed to start a slow clap and keep it going until everyone joined in—he chose not to play along—but everyone else fulfilled their roles perfectly, adding lots of laughter to the evening.

After dinner, games, visiting, and plenty of fun, we changed into our pajamas—OOKS T-shirts to mark the year we officially became fans while cheering Jessica on. Of course, no Christmas Eve is complete without the sibling gift exchange, driving around to look at Christmas lights and watching The Polar Express before John and I laid out the gifts and filled the stockings.

It truly was a perfect Christmas Eve together. I fell asleep that night with a heart fuller than ever.

Crandell Lake during the break

During our Christmas break, we bundled up and headed out for a winter hike into Crandell Lake. It was one of those perfect winter days—fresh air, beautiful views, and just the right snow conditions. The trail wasn’t too slippery, making for an easy and enjoyable walk. Radar came along too and had the time of his life, even if he ended up completely caked in snow by the end.

John, Abby, Jess, Grayson, and I shared lots of laughs along the way and found ourselves reminiscing about a previous winter hike into Crandell. We remembered the time we crossed paths with a woman named Tamarra and her family and were able to help them on the trail. It was a simple but meaningful reminder of how these shared experiences stay with us.

It was a beautiful way to spend a winter day—together, outdoors, and making memories.

 

December fun and games

December brought plenty of time together as a family. Nate received a 12 Days of Christmas delivery from Aunt Karen, and one day included a pack of long balloons. Nate and Jess spent an entire evening blowing them up and taping them to Sam’s bedroom ceiling—it was hilarious.

We also learned how to play poker, with Nate proving himself to be an expert (and patient) teacher. We played often, and one night Jessica’s friends even joined us for a little friendly “gambling.”

I truly enjoyed the last week of school before the holidays. The female staff took part in the school dance contest, learning a Men in Black routine—and I must say, I didn’t suck at it! Haha. 

It’s always such a fun week. 

Christmas really is more enjoyable when it’s celebrated with kids.

A weekend of Basketball

A Weekend Full of Basketball, Family, and Joy

This past weekend was one of those beautiful, full-hearted weekends that reminds me just how much I love watching my kids do what they love.

Jessica was here in southern Alberta playing basketball, and it all kicked off with a Friday night game in Calgary. I was absolutely thrilled to be able to attend. There’s something special about sitting in the stands, hearing the squeak of shoes on the court, and knowing that one of those athletes out there is your own child. Watching Jessica play—focused, determined, and confident—was such a gift.

The excitement continued as she played again in Lethbridge at the college. What made this game even more meaningful was the crowd. Most of our family, along with some extended family, came out to support her. Seeing so many familiar faces in the stands, all cheering her on, made the whole experience feel extra special. Jessica got some good minutes on the floor, and it was pure joy to watch her compete, hustle, and give it her all.

At the same time Jessica was battling it out against the Kodiaks, Sam was busy on the court too—playing in the alumni tournament. Watching him and his friends suit up and play together again was such a treat. There’s something nostalgic and energizing about seeing those connections rekindled through the game they love. Even better, their team took FIRST place in the beloved annual tournament! Sam had a great first game and played well throughout the rest, and it was impossible not to feel proud.

Cheering on both Jessica and Sam in the same weekend—sometimes in different gyms, sometimes in spirit—filled my heart to the brim. I absolutely loved cheering on these kiddos. What a weekend of talent, teamwork, family, and unforgettable memories.

The Day Sam Came Home

The day Sam came home from his LDS mission to Arizona was nothing short of incredible—one of those days that settles deep into your heart and stays there.

Nate, John, and I left early for Calgary, our excitement building with every mile. We arrived at the airport at the exact same time Abby and Jessica were landing from Edmonton. The timing felt like a small miracle. Together, we made our way to the international gate, joining the Bultsma family, since Sam and Brooke were both coming home on the same flight. There was a sense of shared anticipation in the air—families united by love, pride, and a whole lot of emotion.

Aside from a brief moment when security almost kicked us out for gathering in the wrong spot (apparently joy can be a little disruptive 😄), the pickup itself was flawless.

And then Sam walked through.

It was so good to see him. He had such joy on his face—real, settled joy. He looked people in the eye. He was present, intentional, and genuinely attentive to every single person he spoke with. Watching him interact, it was impossible not to feel inspired. This wasn’t just our Sam returning home; this was a young man who had been shaped, refined, and strengthened by two years of devoted service.

After the airport, we headed to Olive Garden for lunch—a perfect place to sit, breathe, laugh, and soak it all in. Saying goodbye to Abby and Jessica was hard, but with finals the very next day, there was no other choice. We parted ways with hugs and full hearts.

The four of us—Sam, Nate, John, and I—then returned home, where Sam was officially released by President Ferguson. That moment felt sacred. Two years of faithful service brought to a close, and a new chapter beginning.

It’s astonishing how quickly two years can pass. Even more amazing is how much growth can happen in that time. Sam has grown in confidence, faith, compassion, and purpose—and now, we are together again as a family.

God is good.