Christmas 2016

 Christmas Eve at Paul and Darlene's.  We just got home from evening church service

 Everyone working to get that perfect shot! 

 The cousins performing the Christmas story for everyone

 After presents, we enjoyed treats and homemade Lefsa!

 Then is was time for a birthday party to celebrate Jesus and His birth.  This cake had actually been saved from Paul and Darlene's anniversary party this past summer.  It was just as delicious the second time. 

 Christmas Day found us in Mitchell at my parents.  We had a great day with family!

We ended the day by going to a movie with Grandpa Pat and Uncle Jordan

December Happenings

 Lauren's first Winter Formal.  They all went as a group of friends.

  Madelyn and Owen had parts in the Church Christmas play.  Madelyn was "Mother Mouse" and sang a beautiful solo.

Owen was a sheep.  

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Madelyn was a swan in the Lincoln School Christmas music program

Lauren turned 15!  

Nutcracker

 Madelyn was cast for the role of Young Mother Ginger in the production of "The Nutcracker" ballet.  It is performed every other year.  Its lots of hard work and many rehearsals but its a beautiful show and its a great way to kick off the Christmas season!

 Some of Madelyn's fan club

All smiles after receiving flowers from her dance teacher!

Thanksgiving 2016

 Paul and Darlene hosted Thanksgiving in Sioux Falls.  We had a big crew this year!  

The kids were all smiles with Uncle Jordan here from Dallas.

Halloween 2016

Jillian was a Skittle as were the other players of her softball team.  Madelyn was a Starbucks Latte and Owen was a Storm Trooper.  It was a beautiful night for trick or treating!  

African Children's Choir

 We were asked to host 4 girls and their "auntie" from the African Children's Choir when they performed here in Yankton.  We had no idea what to expect but we were beyond blessed by the time we spent with them. During the day they would go to school at our church and then they would spend the evenings with us. They ended up staying with us for 5 nights and we had a wonderful time getting to know them better. They were so kind and well mannered!   It was hard to see them go but they sure have bright futures ahead!

 Madelyn with Michelle

 Jillian with Natasha and Benita

Auntie Laura with Karen

Owen Fall 2016

 Owen played his first year of tackle football. #82!  He really enjoyed it.  He played various positions but he really enjoyed running back.

 Owen and Will took a trip to Dallas to see Uncle Jordan and watch the Oklahoma Sooners and the Dallas Cowboys play football. They also got to meet up with Ryan Miller and tour the TCU campus. It was a BIG weekend!