Monday, January 17, 2011

Day off of school == day of fun!!!









The kids were off of school today so we made the most of our free time during a mild, overcast Winter day here in Iowa!! I arranged my schedule so that I would be off today too. The morning started out with some ice skating sponsored by one of the local radio stations here in town. I had first proposed the idea to the kids using the "free donuts, OJ & chocolate milk" for all skaters that had been advertised......knowing that I would need some persuasive tactics to get little Mr. Cairney on the ice. He LOVES things that he knows he can do, BUT is not the best at trying a new adventure being unsure of his success.....and it was NOT because of lack of trying, but Kate and I could not talk him into skating with us this morning. SO, he then became out photographer. He did a great job. I then also promised them donuts at the store later (because of course, when we arrived, they were out of everything) while picking up a few other groceries and they were both very excited about that! Miss Kate did so well today, and she cannot wait to go back. Her and I both think that even though we love roller-skating, ice skating seems to be a little easier. She for sure wants to go back again another time, and Ben even said he may give it a try next time! I will keep you all posted on that.
We also went sledding today, and once we finally got home from all of our outings, the kids were wiped out! But, I told them I could not let this perfect "snow-man" making weather get away from me - and I gave it my best effort for the day! Not too bad for a Mom - right??
The kids are all tucked in, sound asleep, and during prayers/good night kisses/I love you's, they both thanked me for a very fun day.......little do they know......I enjoy these days just as much or even more than they. Times such as these are little gifts that God gives us, and we have to enjoy each and every one of them!!! -- I love you both very much Kate and Ben - thank you for a wonderful "winter-time day"......

Caramel apple surprise



Aunt Nicki (my oldest sister) loves to send fun little "surprises" in the mail. One year she surprised the kids with a "send a ball" and we arrived home from a vacation with a new ball on our doorstep telling us to "Have a ball at school that week!" The latest surprise as you can see was a M&M, chocolate drizzle, caramel covered apple -- It was delicious and we enjoyed all being able to share it with some friends over dinner that night. Thanks Aunt Nicki - we love you & these special things that you do!!!!

Saturday, January 15, 2011

Cairney Christmas - 2010

Jack, Kate, & Cassie enjoying a card gameNick, Zack, and Ben - taking a break from air hockey to pose for me
Aunt Lynne, Uncle Jeff, Uncle Jim, Zack and Papa Cairney opening some gifts
Joey admiring the ornament that Grandma made for him
I guess that we are not exciting enough for Grant!
The kids were blessed with many gifts this Chrismas, including lego's (which are at the top of Ben's list), and a magic set for Kate (which has entertained us all...but Grandma Cairney spent MANY hours --- or what some of you may call "hours of labor of LOVE" to create beautiful ornaments and quilts for each of the grandkids. Last year she asked them all what their three favorite colors were and without further questioning, went to work for an entire year! What an amazing gift and truly things that they will treasure for a lifetime! Thanks again Celie - they are beautiful!!! Also, thank-you to Papa for sacrificing so much time away from Grandma so she could spend many hours in the sewing room!!!(-: We love you both....


the famous Cairney cousins pyramid
showing off their beautiful quilts from Grandma Cairney
Kate, Ben and Grandma Cairney
We were able to celebrate Cairney Christmas last weekend in Indianola with all of the Cairney's (except for Aunt Suzy whom was a bit under the weather - we missed her!). The weekend of festivities kicked off at the Jensen house with a very fun pizza party Friday night. Then we all spent Saturday & Sunday at Papa and Grandma's. Despite the very cold temps, we had such a wonderful time playing games, cards, "spoons", reminiscing on stories, watching the kids entertain each other, enjoying delicious meals/treats and the famous "peanut butter cakes" and most of all -- quality time together. Our neices and nephews are all really growing up, much like Kate and Ben but at so many different phases; high school, junior high, middle school, dating, driving, etc,.. SO many exciting events to keep track of, but I just love this! I hope that they don't tire of their Aunt Keri asking them so many questions about the latest "happenings" in their lives.
Another wonderful weekend of many memories made!