Snow Fun

Living in Kansas, we really missed the snow. We have all looked forward to being back in the west to play in the snow again. We spent New Year's at Grandma & Grandpa Sanderson's house in Utah. We had a great time spending it with family. Dave, Tatum & Kreed, and Kari were also there. We played games until way too late at night, ate more yummy food than we should have (actually I should only speak for myself), and probably wore out the nintendo. Carter played outside until he was cold, wet, and wrinkled. We are loving being around family! These pictures were taken on New Year's Eve. Hali and Kreed had a great time riding together and Paige enjoyed rides with Grandpa. Todd enjoyed pulling Carter on the sled, I think because Carter would yell, "faster! faster!" And of course, Todd would go faster and dump Carter off. Carter and Hali enjoyed throwing snow on everyone. In this picture, it happened to be Uncle Dave. It was a great time!

A Beautiful Snowy Morning

We awoke Friday morning (Jan. 2) to 5" of new snow. One thing I love about the snow is that it falls so peacefully. It is really enjoyable to wake up in the morning and have it look different than the night before. We have also really missed the mountains. This view is from my parents front yard. The trees were covered in snow and it stayed that way all day. So once again, we took advantage of the snow!

Todd & Paige pulling Carter and Hali once again. This time, they were dusted with quite a bit more snow and got dumped off a lot more. It was fun for everyone!
I know, this is a silly picture of quail on my parent's driveway, but it's the simple things I've missed while in Kansas. I have always enjoyed watching them waddle down the road. I love the country!

After a little while of watching the kids go around and around, I mentioned the word "jump" to Dad and he was quickly back with a shovel. He and Todd took turns on course maintenance and before long, they had a pretty good jump going. Carter and Hali thought it was great! We all had some great laughs. Thanks Mom and Dad for a fun time!

Todd's Graduation

The day we have been waiting for finally arrived!!! Todd's graduation was one of the most exciting events I have been a part of in quite sometime. He graduated from Law school on December 12, 2008. It has been a rollercoaster of a ride, but many wonderful blessings have also come our way. Todd started and finished his undergrad in 2 years, taking up to 24 credits in one semester, just to get finished quickly. As soon as he finished, we moved to Kansas and 6 weeks later he started law school, completing that in 2 1/2 years. Talk about determination! He has amazed me through the whole process. He could have easily buried himself in the books, but he always found time each day to spend with me and the kids. Family has always been his top priority. My church calling took me away from home quite a bit and he always supported me. He never once complained about having to take care of the kids. They enjoyed eating popcorn and watching movies together. The kids were sad when I didn't have to leave because then there usually wasn't popcorn with Dad. It was just another night. Todd has made a lot of sacrifices over the past 4 1/2 years and continues to do so. I appreciate all that he does for us. I am so grateful to be married to him. Way to go, Todd!


We were very blessed to have our parents and some friends come out for graduation. They made a lot of sacrifices to attend and we really appreciate them coming. It made the night that much more special. Thanks!!
Our family with Mom Pingel and Mom & Dad Sanderson