Drifting Gone Wrong

A few weeks ago, Tayden and his friend decided to go drifting in a church parking lot. It didn't work out so well for him as he lost control, jumped a curb and hit a fence. He called us, panicking, and we went up to the church to assess the damage. His wheels were facing each other and it was clear there was some major issues. Scott laid into him pretty heavy and we were grateful that our good friend, Justin Frandsen (Dad of Taydens friend, Luke) was there and helped calm things down. We left the car for the night and went home. 

At home, we had a good talk and lots of regret and tears. Tayden and I had a chance to discuss what was really important and that was that he was safe. It could have been so much worse, but it wasn't. We prayed together that night and he said a beautiful prayer. He prayed in gratitude for his safety, he prayed for forgiveness and strength to fix the problem. It was a moment I'll never forget. 

He was pretty upset, so I laid in bed with him while he fell asleep. As I laid next to my oldest son, I was overwhelmed with emotion. I felt so much love for my little boy that was growing up and facing hard things. I felt gratitude that he was safe. I felt hope and pride for the person he is becoming. It was a hard parenting moment, but so rewarding too. 

This has actually shaped up to be a great learning lesson. Tayden is fixing his mistake. He has a job lined up to pay for the damage and repairs. He and Scott worked together to fix the fence at the church and are working to fix the car. Scott found the same car in Pocatello that was being sold for parts and we are using it to fix Taydens car. Tayden and Scott have spent a lot of the time in the garage together and its been educational and bonding. Even though this has been hard, its been good. I'm proud of him for taking responsibility and learning from his mistakes. 

 

Christmas 2025

Christmas was great this year! I only took a handful of pictures, but we had a blast nonetheless. 

We spent Christmas Eve at the Mennears. We played games, ate good food, and opened gifts. It was a really great way to spend the day before Christmas. 

Christmas morning was kicked off with our candle wreath and prayer. We really want to instill in our kids that Christmas is fun, but it is about Christ and he must remain the center. We had a slow morning, starting at 8:00, and opened gifts one at a time. It was fun watching the joy on our boys' faces when they opened the gifts they were hoping for. 

We went to Packards for Christmas afternoon. Again, we ate good food, played games, and opened gifts. It was a great time. 

Christmas was different this year. None of our kids believe in Santa anymore, and I didn't anticipate what that would do to the Christmas magic. I didn't plan anything extra through the month to replace Santa, and we felt a difference in our home. Next year, I am going to do some extra stuff, like a service advent. Our Christmas experience is going through a shift and I wasn't ready for it this year, but I will be next year.

I love Christmas and celebrating the ultimate gift, Jesus Christ. His birth is nothing short of miraculous and I thank our Heavenly Father for sending his Son. The older I get, the more I understand just how blessed we are to have a Savior. 

 

Christmas Fish

Per tradition, Tayden made his sugar cookie Christmas fish. I don't know when this started, but I'm glad it hasn't stopped. 

 

Football Signing

Hillcrest High does an eighth-grade football signing every year for the upcoming freshman and Beckett had the chance to sign this year. It was an honor watching him sign and listening to the coaches speak so highly of him. They are excited to get him into the program. The offensive coach got his number from Tayden so he can start working with him, the head freshman coach congratulated him on his squatting weight, and Moss, the head coach, complimented him on his drive and dedication. He has found his passion. 

Pup Patrol

The pups are always on patrol. I especially love it when they sit together on duty. 

 

Varsity Banquet

The varsity football team held their yearly banquet. The coaches recognized all the players, but mainly focused on the seniors. We were surprised when a coach started talking about Tayden, saying he had his favorite quote of the year. The coach said, "My favorite quote of the season was from a player with a lot of confidence. We ran a play and the ball was coming to him. He said, "I got it Coach1" then dropped it. He ran back into the huddle and said, "Do it again. I got it Coach!" So, we reran it and he dropped it again! Back into the huddle and he said, "I got it Coach!" I wasn't sure he did at this point, but he was so insistent that we tried again. He had an insane catch in the end zone for a touchdown. I love that type of drive and confidence in my players."

It was so fun to hear Tayden be recognized for his hard work and dedication. He loves football and had such a great year this year. 

At the banquet, they got to sign the State Championship poster, a bleacher chair, and a handful of footballs. It was a great night!

 

Walking the Teenager

The other night, Tayden was extra chatting and I was soaking it up. When he wants to talk, I stop everything I'm doing to listen. Scott and I were getting ready to go for a walk with the dogs, but Tayden still had more to say, so I invited him on the walk with us. Much to my surprise, he accepted. Scott, Tayden and I walked the dogs and talked along the way. It was easily one of my favorite recent nights. I love the boy, but hate how quickly he is growing. I cherish all the time I have with him.