Christmas 2010

 Jason and I started our family tradition of Christmas light viewing on Christamas Eve 19 years ago. 

 We heard Marshall, TX was the place to be so we drove over.  Their display was partially unlit but their downtown is charming.

Brittany checking out her stocking stuffings.

 Christmas morning was wonderful.  We have all been sick and I thought what a blessing to be home while many are in hospitals.

 Derek collects coins  This is a big one.

The box is winning but Jenelle did prevail and got it open. 

I thought of all the homes that would experience violence this Christmas.  What a blessing to live in a home of peace. 

Candy Making Fun

Many thanks to my new friend Melissa Martinez for hosting this candy making day!  Her home is  comfortable, beautifully decorated and welcoming.  Don't you love her hat?

The younger kids enjoyed the wii.

Yummy Chocolate

Sweet baby was able to sleep during all the chaos.

Candy must be tasted to ensure quality.

Peppermint bark is one of my favorites.

Melissa's lovely tree.

These kids are great confectioners.

Arrow Of Light and Growing Up

 My tiger cub not too many years ago.

Derek's last time to post the colors as a Webelos.

 Dad giving Derek his Arrow of Light-the highest award in Cub Scouts.  Derek earned all 20 Webelos pins.

 One Proud Mama!

 Waiting to crossover the bridge to Boy Scouts.

 He didn't waste any time.  Why must they hurry to grow up?

Dad crossed over also while Derek received his Boy Scout loops on his shirt.  Mama was weepy and so proud of Derek's accomplishment.

Diamond Fever

Saturday we went diamond mining at Crater of Diamonds State Park.  The weather was gorgeous with highs in the 70s and sunny.  The process is digging a bucketful of dirt, panning the dirt in water and hoping you have a diamond.  We panned along side fellow prospectors from Yellow Stone Park, Montana, Oklahoma and of course Arkansas.  At the end of the day we were wet, dirty and happy.  I do believe those attributes are signs of a day well spent.  And next time I am sure we will find a 40 carat diamond!