A new year, (but not a new decade, as so many try to make it), lets one think of so many things ahead. A time to wish that things would, or could, be different, to hope that things have changed, and to believe that all that they have is enough. I am not one at keeping resolutions, so from the thoughts of a friend, I am starting not only this year, but every day, with "suggestions" for making ME better. I'm not trying to make life better, because I don't think life could get any better. A loving husband, unconditionally, two sons, that continue to amaze me on a daily basis, and 4 joyful grandchildren. Grandchildren are the best- unconditional love on a daily basis, unlike so many others that you encounter. Today I decided to be happy, reduce the sarcasm, and be pleased with every one that I greet. What a difference! People responded pleasantly, engaged in some conversations, and were smiling. So, as the months progress through the year, I am hoping that I can keep the suggestions flowing, and earnestly mean to be pleasant each and every day!
Just the right size for this little one.
Corey and three kids, very tired kids, so the smiles were not there.
Little Riker just loved Dawson.
And he felt right at ease with Lexy.
And this one is for Great Grammie and Great Grampa Dow, so you can see the curls are back!
I think Lexy might have burned her marshmallow by the looks of the contents of her mouth.
Even Brooklynn was helping with the fire.
All in all, a fun day off from school, and a day well spent enjoying the out doors.
Kloe was very excited for the party. It was fun to watch both of them celebrating birthdays. 
Lexy looks deep in thought here, but she, too, had fun watching gifts being opened, and especially eating the cupcakes!
This one! She wanted to be right in the middle of everything. She just couldn't keep her hands off the gifts, helped blow out the candles, and made sure she was part of the celebration!
Dawson had almost as much fun watching Kloe as he did opening his gifts.
They both blew out the candles, and as you can see, Brooklynn was also helping, too.
Any one that knows Dawson, knows that he loves the timer on the microwave. We found a digital timer, without the microwave, and gave it to him for his birthday. He was thrilled. He got games, trucks, airplanes, and books, too, but you can see what he really liked. Now if we can just find a way to do the garage door opener, with out the garage?
Great day for all. Kids grow up way too fast, as we all know. It's fun to be able to celebrate the days with the family. 
Now, something that will really make you smile, because you aren't here and dealing with it! This is the picture out the den door.
Enjoy the warmth of where you are! To our friends visiting the sunny south! Love you and miss you!