The Orchard Team Huddle

As I started gathering pictures for this post I realized that most of them are terrible!  I just don't take the time to plan for pictures and usually end up snapping them with my phone in less than ideal conditions.  Most of them are grainy or dark or blurry or cluttered.  I REALLY need to take a photography class but that didn't happen this season so I will do the best I can with what I have to work with here!  Our 2010 holiday season... Stockton had so much fun adding all of his favorite school ornaments to our kid's tree.  Mason had fun with everything! Yay!  Mason is not afraid of Santa.  My others boys were terrified even when they were old enough to "get it". The first time I have had all three of them with Santa. It wouldn't be the holidays without sugar cookies. We never tire of Christmas Eve bowling.  This is Douglas' favorite tradition. The Prize Box is Stockton's favorite tradition.  Stockton gets the odd days an...

20 years ago we promised to love each other, honor each other and help and serve each other for time and all eternity.  We had no idea what was in store but knew we wanted to do it together.  And, that we have done.  The innocent and happy couple pictured knew nothing of trials, struggles and heartbreak.  Yet, they knew nothing of sacrifice, trust and joy.  Our love has increased 20 fold and 20 years from now I expect to feel the very same way. Happy Anniversary to my best friend. Love, Jenny

It is amazing what a mid-December morning walk in sunshine and tolerable temperatures can do for the soul! *Not pictured...mom having just as much fun as Mason!

15 years ago on December 6th I held my firstborn. There is something about that firstborn child that can't be described.  He was the first to be completely dependent on me, the first to call me mom, the first to take claim of my mommy heart.  Words really can't describe the feelings of joy and love I have for this special boy.  Heavenly Father sent me one of the finest spirits he had and of that I am grateful. The night before his birthday Douglas campaigned hard to open his presents early due to a 6:30 am basketball practice.  I told him they would still be here for him later on in the day.  He went to bed frustrated but got over it.  I share this experience to show that Douglas does have a bit of teenager-ness in him even though it is rarely mentioned or seen.  For the most part he is level headed, easy going and obedient.  He is a great guinea pig for my not so great parenting skills!  Douglas allowed me to deliver lunch to the Jr. H...