Kelleigh and Fancy

We enjoyed one of the few days we've had rain-free this holiday so Kelleigh had her make-up riding lesson. She rode "Fancy" today who is one of the older horses and a bit less inclined to cooperate.  I think she'll have a new appreciation for "Buttercup" tomorrow!

Christmas 2012

As another year winds down, I want to post a few pictures from our Christmas.  Because of Ryan's work schedule, we celebrated our Christmas on Saturday the 22nd.  Connor and I picked him up late from work on Friday night and he stayed until mid-morning Sunday as he had work.  We tried to squeeze in every food item that he's missed since he was home a year ago; those we didn't get to we'll have when he's back between classes in January.

Here are a few pictures from our day ...

I will start with Kelleigh.  She already knew about her cowgirl boots as she had to be there to try them on but now she gets to have them!  Her life revolves around animal prints, hence, so did her gifts this year.  All her apparel were cheetah print, Ryan got her a grooming kit for Chloe (complete with nail polish), George Foreman grill for her burgers (which is awesome by the way), and a Mrs. Claus outfit for Chloe from Connor.

Connor wanted new tennis shoes so also knew about them since he needed to choose them.  He also loved his Bronco-colors flannel shirt, but his biggest surprise was the gift card from Ryan to get a gecko.  He's wanted a reptile forever!  In addition to a few other items, we got him the tank set-up he needed for the new addition.  We went today to get the creature and chose to adopt one that had been dropped off by a mom whose son went to college and she didn't want to care for it.  Now it has a new home and an enthusiastic owner!

Ryan's big gift was an iPhone as, now that he's a graduate, he's allowed to have one.  It will be a tremendous help with his work schedule.  He got a couple shirts, lounge pants, quarters for the laundry machine, and a new wallet.

Mark got a US Open golf shirt, griddle, socks, kitchen items, Cal mug, and candy.  I got my cowgirl boots, puzzles, calendar, candle, and scarf.

Grandma got a doggie knitting book from Chloe (hint, hint), sweater, yarn, and candy.  

The furballs got treats, bones, plush duck, and a tug-o-war toy.

Everyone was pleased and have things they will enjoy all year long.

Holiday Party

One of the highlights for the guys in Ryan's program is the annual Holiday Party. This year was no exception.  It's always so great to see the progress the boys have made through the last year as well as that of the families.  While I was in Florida, Mom and I got outfits for the kids to wear yesterday to make the day even more special ...

I had a wonderful time visiting with my parents last weekend.  On Saturday my sister joined us.  I was also able to see family friends who I haven't seen in decades that now also live in Florida.  As always, it was hard to say goodbye ...