Saturday, January 1, 2011

FUN...FUN...FUN...

This little Sophia loves thrills! Her daddy was throwing
her up in the air and she was squealing with laughter!
She just makes us all laugh so hard all the time!



Sophia and her grandma Julie all ready for church,
and yes she has her lip gloss like every beauty does.


What does a grandma do with a cute grand daughter as
they are getting ready to put whipping cream on their
pumpkin pie? This...we had to test the whipping cream
to make sure it's ok for the others! And as we kept on
doing it, it was a lucky thing there was any left for the others!

(I don't generally wear two necklaces at the same time
but my two daughters each gave me a pretty necklace,
so I wore them both!)


The grand kids all stayed for an over night-er, so we just
had to make some more candy...bark, and dates filled with
pecans and dipped in chocolate...YUM! Something my mom
used to make and I always loved them!


This is Brody...isn't he a darling when he is asleep?!


It's been a BIG day and he just passed out in
the corner of the big leather sofa, sound asleep!


Sleep overs at grandma and grandpa's house always include
some time spent in the hot tub. These kids had so much fun
talking and looking up at the stars. Our dog Cougar wants to
be in on everything they do, he just loves them all so much!

Once he even jumped into the hot tub with them and then
grandpa had to let the water out and clean it. He will sit there
the whole time with his head on the edge, just being with the kids.


Kelton and Brody playing a game and I think
Brody is doing the "Doritos dance" I know he
ate enough of them, he packed them all over
the house eating them!


I was in the other room and came out to hear these
kids roaring with laughter! What were they doing?!


Watching funny videos off of you tube with their
aunt Lindsey and uncle Michael...it is so fun to hear
them laugh like that and so nice for them to spend
time with good family members who take the time
to play with them.


What a cute, fun bunch, all ages having a blast together.


They all had a fun sleep over, hot tubing, playing pool, and games,
watching funny videos and movies. In the morning I made pans full
of Monster Pancakes and they played some more before going home.
And baby Sophia is so loved by all her cousins, they just adore her!


Later that day we went out for a picnic...it was about 35 degrees,
not too bad because the sun was out. It was fun to get out of the
house and hike around a bit and feel the fresh air and absorb the
beauty of this gorgeous place we are so blessed to live in.


I never get tired of taking pictures of this beautiful
red rock country. I love to be out in it everyday.


Me and my walking companion Cougar. I always feel
safe with him and he is so full of love and kindness.
Thats why I love goldens, they are such great friends
and companions. They want to please you so much, I
never have to ask twice, he is so obedient. I look like
a little kid and thats what I feel like when I go out to
play with my dogs and kids...the best of times!

HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE!


61 comments:

just call me jo said...

Your family sure has a fun time together. You're fortunate. Cougar is a delightful friend.

NanaDiana said...

Julie- I love visiting your family! I read every word...what a blessing to have such a close family that loves on each other...it doesn't get any better than that~

And your little Sophia? yeah...I think I see a SweetCheeks in the making! Hold on - you are in for quite a ride~ Hugs- Diana

Mildred said...

Happy New Year to you and your family! Wonderful, fun photos of the family and you live in such a scenic place. Glad you could get out and enjoy the sunshine and Cougar is precious.

Saimi said...

That little Sophia is going to love, love, love roller coasters!

You have a beautiful family and it truly doesn't get any better than the love and closeness you all share!

Thanks for sharing them!

Connie said...

I can see why the grandkids love going to Grandma and Grandpa's house! You are amazing! It's good you have a partner to help test the whipping cream!

Cougar is a beautiful dog!
Hope you have a very happy new year!
Here's to lots of fun and love in 2011!

Cindy said...

Julie..seeing your crew..lets me get a peek to how it will be in a few years around here. I can't wait.These little ones are fun and so darn cute..but I am looking forward to really talking and sharing with them as they get older.Thank you for sharing these moments in your life. Looking forward to more family get togethers next year with you.

Hugs Cindy from Rick-Rack and Gingham

cindy-stitches-n-stuff.blogspot.com said...

Hi Julie, what a wonderful grandma you are. The party looks wonderful. I love to emagine the memories that are being made.

big hugs
cindy@stitches

Garden of Egan said...

Julie it looks like your home is absolute heaven! Filled with your family and beautiful love.
I hope you have a great New Year.
Thanks for being such a wonderful woman always inspiring others.
HUGS to you.

Linda @ A La Carte said...

Looks like a wonderful time was had by all! I love family!

janis said...

Oh Julie! I so want to be a Grandma like you!!!
Sweet Sophia couldn't look happier! In fact all your Grands look like happy campers. I love that Cougar is on call as an extra supervisor :) Your whipped Cream photo w/ your Grand-daughter reminded me of me. That is my favorite way to eat it. When I ran an after-school program, I would bring it in to the kiddos they would open up & I'd shoot it in! Great fun!

Cherie said...

I think I wanna go to Grandma and Grandpa's house too! Your grandkids are definately treated like royalty and that is the way it should be!
I spy little Sophia licking the lip gloss off of her lips.
And the picture of you with your granddaughter and your mouths full of Whipped Cream....Priceless!!

Have a very Happy New Years!!

Mimi Sue said...

You sure do have a beautiful family Julie! Cougar is a doll too. Have a wonderful 2011. Mimi

Tyla said...

Looks like you all had a blast! I hope you have a very happy, healthy and safe new year, Julie.

Maryjane-The Beehive Cottage said...

Julie, you always pull at my heart~strings when I visit you! I love all your sweet pictures that you share with us...precious grandchildren, your fur babies, even sweet Jack in Heaven, your darling Mother, hubby and the inside of your heart and home! THANK YOU my friend! Wishing you and yours a very Happy New Year filled with lots of blessings.

Love ya Julia,
Maryjane

Marie said...

Happy New Year Julie! I wish you and your family all the best in the coming months! Loved all the pictures. Family times are the best of times! xxoo

Cindy (Applestone Cottage) said...

Hi Julie,
I want to be one of your grandkids!!!
What a great time they have at your house! Now I need to get a hot tub, that looks so much fun!
Wonderful, beautiful pics! I think Addison has that same dress as Sophia, too cute!
Happy New Year!
Hugs,
Cindy

BEAR's Mom said...

That Sophia is going to be a thrill seaker!!! Gorgeous pictures of your family...
BEAR sends sloppy kisses to Cougar!
Happy New Year Hugs
~victoria~

Susan said...

Julie, I just look at those photos and read that post and I'm thinking..."That's what it's all about , right there."
What an amazing family...looks like your place is the place to be.
I love little Brody's belt buckle, very nice.

from my front porch... said...

Love the pics! And Cougar is one sweet pup:) Give him a smooch from me..
Happy New Year, Julie. I am thankful for our friendship.
God Bless.
xo, misha

pollydove said...

What fun pictures and what fun times and memories you are creating for those grandkids of yours! I want to be that kind of a grandma too - you are awesome! I love that picture of you and Sophia ready for church, it is just darling!

And I pretty much love Cougar too!

Paula said...

Oh, Miss Julie- you look like the most funnest Grandma ever!!
The first picture of Sophia flying in the air made me catch my breath!! And I love her little dress- sooo cute.

Gloria said...

It looks like you had a wonderful time! So full of family and cherished fun memories. You are such a wonderful Grandma & Mom! May God bless you for that!!

Thank you for the super kind comment you left me! That was very nice of you. I am so glad I have met you! You are a blessing, indeed! :) I appreciate your sweet friendship and the comments you leave me!

Have an awesome New Year...full of all of God's wonderful goodness!!!
xoxo Gloria

Cathy~Mille Fleur said...

You are the cutest thing! Happy New Year to you and your beautiful family! Can't wait to see what 2011holds for us all;)!

XOXO
Cathy

~*~ saskia ~*~ said...

Happy New Year, dearest Julie! I'm wishing you a sparkling 2011. Lots of Love xxxx

Tracy said...

Julie,
Cougar is absolutely beautiful~ as is the rest of your family...that little Sophia is just a wonder to behold; love her smile!

Happy New Year to you and many blessings in 2011!

Ann said...

It certainly looks like a fun time was had by all including Cougar even if it was from the outside of the hot tub.
A Happy New Year to you and your lovely family

Shelia said...

Hi Julie! Oh, look at that little sweet Sophia! What a little cutie. You both look so pretty all dressed up. I've said it before but I love seeing these wonderful snaps of your family! You have beautiful children and grands - reflections of a loving family!
Happy New Year, you little stinker! :)
Be a sweetie,
Shelia ;)

paperbird said...

You have been blessed with a wonderful family and you are amazing Julie all that you share and do with your grand babies. You are a great example of all that is good.

Sending sweet wishes for a wonderful and blessed new year.
xoxo
Lorraine

Blessedmom's Simple Home said...

Happy New Year to you and your family dear Julie. I just love visiting with you and seeing all the photos of your beautiful family. I wish every child could have a grandmother like you! How blessed they would all be.
Blessings,
Marcia

Jessica Heights said...

We used to toss our kiddos like baby Sophia...it's adorable how much they love that!

Happy New Year!

Karen said...

Julie,
so behind on blog reading, but oh how I enjoyed seeing your fun filled days and such a wonderful Christmas shared with family. I can tell you are a wonderful grandmother. They love being with you; making memories girl!
Wishing you a wonderful 2011.

Teacup Mosaics said...

Thank you for sharing your wonderful family. Wishing you all my best in 2011, and I THANK you for your visits and friendship in 2010.

bj said...

Oh, Julie...all the grands are sooo good looking. :))
Isn't it such fun when they all get together!! I love it, too.

I wanted to thank you for the birthday wishes. I just know this new year is going to bring us all many more blessings from our sweet Father God.
xoxo bj

Betsy said...

I certainly agree that it is the laughter that is the most fun. I love seeing pictures of your family all together!

And Julie..it's SO 'in' to layer your jewelry now! :)

Scrappy Girl said...

What a fun time! I love the pic of the dog with his head on the side of the hot tub. Happy New Year!

Stacey said...

Hi Julie. :) Your family pictures are great. Your grandkids are lucky to have you. A grandmother should be fun! You are obviously making great memories.

Happy New Year!

Karen said...

OMG that first picture of Sophia up in the air is priceless... I had to laugh...
It looks like you guys had a great Christmas and New Year season..and I wish you continued laughter and smiles for 2011....

Deb said...

All these pics of your grandchilren remind me when our kids were small and we took them to Gary's folks place. All the cousins would gather and it was just a blast for them. We would stay for a few days and they just loved it. I love all your family photos. Cougar looks like such a sweet soul. I hope you are resting up today like the rest of us. I slept for 11 hours last night...what does that tell ya? Happy New Year, Julie. Hugs, Deb=^..^=x5

just the five of us said...

What a fun time at grandma's house! Hopefully when it's my turn to be a grandma, I will be the fun one too!

Happy New Year!

Brandi said...

WOW! What a beautiful place to call home! I am truly amazed! I love all your family pics. I bet you guys have a lot of fun together! Do you ever see any big, wild scary animals while out on your walks with Cougar? He's a gorgeous companion! I'm so glad you stopped by my blog and I had the chance to see your wonderful space! Happy New Year!!!

Debby said...

What alot of fun. Such a sweet cute family.

Maria said...

Oh my, Julie... I'm laughing out loud!
such fun family photos... right down to the whipped cream in your mouths!
I love the rooster on your table too!
What great shots... perfect for your family album and scrapbooks!
Blessings always... wishing you a year of hope, peace and joy,
~Maria

GardenofDaisies said...

What a beautiful and happy family you have!!! All best wishes for you and yours in 2011!!

Cheyenne said...

What a fun time with all your family. That first photo is absolutely priceless!

Tanna at The Brick Street Bungalow said...

Julie, your family is just precious! I love to visit and see how much you all enjoy each other and God's beautiful creations! Blessings and best wishes for a wonderful new year to you and yours!

Susan B said...

Dear Julie,
My daughter and her husband love their golden Jack too! He is such a sweet, mellow dog. :) Thank you for sharing all the fun times with your family. I enjoyed all of your photos! Have a wonderful week, my friend! xo

Leslie said...

what a great happy family you have. I love cougar too.. he's so cute as he watches from the side lines.
Happy Monday.

gnee @ Singing With Birds said...

Christmas fun? It looks like you had a blast and I'm so glad. Love all the darling kiddies and pretty grams with that darling baby. Oh she is a cutie!

Tracy said...

WOW!! You amaze me with your energy!! What a good Grandma you are!! Looks like lots of fun and good for you for making such wonderful memories for each of your grandchildren!! :-)

Jill said...

Looks like you had a wonderful holiday! So great to have all the family together enjoying fun times! you do live in a beautiful area! what a blessing. :-)
hope you and your family have a wonderful 2011!!
Many Blessings,
Jill

MarySue said...

Monster pancakes...please tell me more. Happy new year. I think you'll make it just that.

~*~ saskia ~*~ said...

Pure happiness in all your pictures, Julie.
Enjoy the new day, the new week, the new month and the new year! xxxx

Creative Mish said...

What fun you must have surrounded by all of those beautiful Grands!

Nikki said...

Happy New Year Julie!
Looks like you've had a wonderful time with your family. I love the first photo of Sohia... she looks like she's having a great time.
All the best for 2011.
xx

Kerin said...

Julie,
what a wonderful thing to do.... grandma sleep-overs. How fun!!
I wish you all good health, much more laughter, and rich blessings in this new year.
Keep the cute family pictures coming :) It's so fun to see you all together, and all of your smiles.

Sue said...

What a beautiful family and oh so much fun. As always I leave inspired. Thank you for sharing.
Hugs, Sue

Megan said...

What sweet memories you are making!
When I grow up I want to be a Grandma like you. Grandkid sleepover is going in "the file".
Happy 2011!!

Cherie said...

Julie - Did you know that your comments are disabled on your two newest posts?

Just thought I would let you know!

maría cecilia said...

Just sending you and your wonderful and lovely family a big big warm hug!!!
cariños

Karen Deborah said...

OK that does it just adopt me. I don't eat much.
Love this and I know you had a wonderful christmas and have a blessed New Year full of more joy! Sophia is growing up so FAST! they all are!

Sharon said...

What beautiful photos of a beautiful family. You can see the love all around.
Would love to come and go for a walk in the red cliffs.
Hugs