Beauty in AZ

I guess one of the great things about retirement is that we get to come to AZ to get out of the cold and snow. While here we enjoy a number of good friends and lots of beautiful sights as we explore the area. We didn't have to go far to enjoy this beautiful sunrise right off our patio. The weather is going to change a little bit but I guess one of the positive things about that is the sunrise we saw today. Now we need to spot the javelinas that seem to be going thru right by our place. We can see the footprints and droppings so we know they've been here.....and close. Maybe I can catch them going thru and get a picture! For now we'll enjoy the beauty of Fountain Hills.

GOTTA LOVE THIS FACE......PAINTED OR PLAIN!!

Southwest or Bust!

We had a delicious meal at Erin's tonight. Lucas and Anne joined us. We had a great time watching the boys play and just visiting. Now we're all packed and ready to head out early in the morning. We should be in AZ on Tuesday sometime. Hoping for good weather and lots of patience for the long ride! I'll miss the kids....big and small....but look forward to lots of fun with AZ friends. Also look forward to Spring Break when all three boys will visit.

The holiday was magic! All three boys made sure of that! We were at Erin's on Christmas Eve after a great church service and then we had Christmas dinner at our house. The boys seemed thrilled with the gifts that Santa brought and it was lots of fun to see the excitement of opening the family gifts on Christmas Day. We are truly blessed with wonderful children (all four) and beautiful grandsons.

Cookie baking fun

Today the Murphy/Landmeier crew gathered at Erin's and made Christmas cookies. All three boys loved the colored sugar and candy that went on the cookies, They played, decorated, baked and enjoyed the train around the tree. We had lunch together and then Lucas had to leave to go home and take his nap. It was a wonderful family morning! We need to make it a tradition!

Techy boys

Nana has discovered the secret to peace and harmony when the big boys spend the night........laptops! Both were happy as clams to be playing side by side ..........and there was no arguing or fighting!

Lucas and Santa 2

At the daycare holiday party Lucas tried his hand at visiting Santa again. This time, with Mom by his side, he said hello, gave a high five and got a little prayer bear from Santa. Success......but we're not on his lap yet!!