Spring!

Spring Break is over and we are back to the school grind this week. We had a good week and were thrilled to have Ray take a day off work last Wednesday. We ventured to Seattle to the Pacific Science Center. The highlight there had to be the butterfly house which the kids couldn't get enough of. Alec (as you can see) had the honor of being a butterfly's "perch" and couldn't seem to shake the little fellow. We watched an Imax movie, saw bugs that were utterly disgusting, and ate in the overpriced cafeteria. The kids seemed to have a great time--Addie refused to sit in her stroller (as you can see) and we spent most of our day chasing her from one thing to the next. The weather for once cooperated all week and the rain came back just in time for the weekend. Swell.

Who's that girl?

I have realized I haven't put any recent pictures of Addie on the blog for quite some time. As you can see her hair continues to grow and take on a life of it's own. Having a toddler is wearing me out but she's my girl. We hang out together, we're a team.

She's our Star...

Olivia participated in the school play this year, PETER PAN. She played Starky the pirate and did an amazing job. They practiced for 3 months several days a week and it was well worth the wait. The production was amazing. A great set, amazing costumes, and wonderful singing and dancing. Livvy has come a long way over the past few years. She has struggled with terrible stage fright but seems to have conquered those fears in a big way. Drama and singing are definately "her" thing and she seemed to thrive in her element. We are so proud of her. Take a look.

Carson turns 7

Carson turns 7...How is that possible?

Well another birthday has come and gone. This one seems to have surprised us in the sense that is just doesn't seem possible that seven years have passed us by since Carson joined our family. I know all parents must feel that way but it has sincerely been a joy to be his Mom. He is soooo full of personality, charm, giggles, talent, fun, etc. we are amazed by him on a daily basis. Carson is a great student, a great "ball" player (of all sorts) and a great brother. His birthday was on a Sunday this year so we are anticipating his "friend" party in a few weeks (after Spring break). He loved his new I-pod Nano and his money from grandma and grandpa that is burning a hole in his pocket. So many choices...he simply cannot decide at this point. It was a great day full of frosted brownies with sprinkles, lots of dancing and overall joy. We sure love you little man. Happy Birthday!

Starting Over

Starting over.

O.k. O.k. haven't been keeping up on the blog thing. No working camera has been a big issue, moving in and getting settled over the last few months hasn't helped either. So... here we go, another attempt to document our life here in Maple Valley.

HO HO HO...We've got snow and a very white christmas

Well...it's official. the snow has hit here in Maple Valley. Some say they haven't seen snow like this here in 20 years. We are feeling a little relieved today that we made it through a major wind storm (blizzard) and never lost power. Evidently Maple Valley is known for major power outages. PHEW! We prepared for the worst but survived. The kids are enjoying the winter weather and are out sledding as we speak. The family should be packing but evidently that is a mom's job and partying down in the winter wonderland is the rest of the Ringhiser clans contribution. We are excited for Christmas and to see family soon. Merry Christmas one and all. We love and miss you.

I am thankful for...

1. Slivers of pumpkin pie, made from scratch, perfect pie crust.


2. Four healthy, talented, beautiful children.


3. Amazon.com (both for employment purposes as well shopping, Free super saver shipping.)


4. Parents who raised us well and continue to provide love, support, and a "home" to gather in for holiday festivities.


5. Friends who listen and listen and continue to listen.


6. Alexander Graham Bell who blessed us with the means to reach and and touch someone via the phone


7. good music, very subjective of course


8. THE United States of America


9. Diet Pepsi (the nectar of the Gods)


10. Ten tiny toes painted red