< Just Because >

Men and the PS3

Brother and Sister

One good thing about Justin living with us is that I get to spend a little more time with him.

And now he is my #2 model :D







I am pretty sure he thinks that I am so silly for wanting to have him pose in random places around town haha! But it is so much fun. He is such a handsome kid and a joy to takes pictures of.

House guest...or permanent resident?..

Chase and I have a new addition to our household...MY brother. Yep, I can't believe it either. I am living with my brother again after 5 years of bliss lol. My little bubba has decided to live with Chase and I because of conflict with my Dad. He graduates from high school this May so he has the "I am an adult syndrome". O-M-G. He doesn't have a clue.

All joking aside, I really feel the pressure of trying to do right by him. I want to give him the freedom he wants with the structure and guidance that he rebels against. We have talked about the rules together(and there are only 3!!) and I have even written up a Behavior Contract. This is definitely a pivotal time in his life and I really want him to make the best decisions. I sincerely hope this isn't just a place to stay until he gets a job and graduates, only to move in with one of his friends- they aren't exactly who I would want him to associate with.. This could be a good opportunity to have freedom yet appreciate family and the help we could give him.

I wish I could just make him understand what I already know--Being an adult isn't really that fun. Forget freedom, let's talk bills and responsibility. Once you move out on your own, you cross an invisible line. People then expect you to be an adult- go to work everyday, pay your bills, make intelligent decisions. I moved out when I was 18 and I struggled. I don't want that for him.

These next few months should be interesting to say the least. I have never had the responsibility of looking after someone other than myself. Hmmmm I might go crazy with a hormonal teenager in my house!!!! If I don't blog for a couple days somebody may need to check on me.

Reminiscing ..Our Wedding 9/22/07

Our wedding photos were taken by Jaren: www.photographybyjaren.blogspot.com

I love looking back at all these and many more pictures from the wedding, especially in the scrapbook my mother-in-law made for us. All of the family worked hard to make it a really special day for us and I still really appreciate it. I love MC!

Little Man

Meet Rags. He is a 3 year old Shih Tzu that I picked up yesterday! His family needed to find him a good home and when I heard about him I thought he would be just right for my Grandma. Her Shih Tzu had to be put down a few months ago because of several illnesses and she was truly heartbroken so I think this little man is going to cheer her right up. He is staying with Chase and I for a week or so until my Mom is able to take him to his new home in Texas. My Grandma is so excited! He is just too cute- calm and terribly sweet, he is going to be a perfect match for her!

Randomness...

The Bull Shoals Dam and surrounding area has looked even more beautiful with all the snow from the past few days.

Our Siera-beara.. I love this baby

It is very hard to get a decent picture of Suzie-Q. She is always on the move!

Karla getting ready to sled down a big hill! Lookin' good, lady :)

I snapped this picture right before MC went for the job interview- so professional;)

When Chase and I went to St. Robert, MO the other day, we set the GPS (aka Gertrude) to take us the fastest route possible- she basically took us backroading lol. We were driving through what seemed like the middle of nowhere and we happened upon this.."bridge". Chase parked the Jeep on the bridge so I could get a good pic.

...this is a little too close for comfort. It had a swift current!!

Chase and I went to Grannie's today and hung out with her, Papa, and Lauren. We had breakfast for dinner and took crazy pictures with the Nikon.

I love this pic of Lauren-too cute!

Chase slowed down the shutter speed on the Nikon so that it took several seconds for the shutter to close. This allows more light and creates a more detailed picture. Well, Chase pointed it at me and then after a few seconds walked across the kitchen. Since he was only in view of the camera for just part of the time the shutter was closing he looks transparent. Very cool!


Well, I have no big plans for tomorrow. Probably some grocery shopping, laundry, maybe play with the dogs in what is left of the snow. Need to start preparing for Super Bowl Sunday!!! I am making Spinach and Artichoke dip but I need a few more recipes.. Hopefully we will be getting together with some friends to watch the game. Hope everyone has enjoyed the snow! Let me know if ya'll have some quick and easy recipes for snacks this Sunday!