Land of the Cactus

This is the view from my parents backyard, isn't it gorgeous? I love the evenings when the sun starts to set- it illuminates the cactus making them glow. Our boys love cactus. They can't wait to spot the first one on our way each time we make the drive to AZ. This year we decided to break the trip up with an overnight stay close to the AZ border which made the trip less grueling on the little guys and so much fun for them to stay in a hotel.

We filled the week with lots of fun together and it was the perfect balance of hanging around the house and getting out to enjoy the wonderful weather! Christmas day my dad, sister and I took a hike up black mountain. It was a rare treat for us to have time just the 2 of us with our dad! Now these pics don't do the beauty of this mountain justice and they also don't capture the insane nature of this hike! It's pretty much straight up the whole way and the ground is made of this loose black shale that likes to move under your feet. But the view from the top is worth every ache you feel the next day:)

Grady got lots of snuggles for Christmas and was especially smiley with his pretty auntie!

The boys spent most of their time playing in the back together

Sunset watching each evening

My dad took Andrew to a Suns game- floor seats! They had a blast and we saw them on TV as we watched from home 

A park day and attempts at getting some pics of the grandkids together

My guys ready for Christmas eve service

 These two are buds and it was so fun for them to have lots of time together

Ryder was too cute with "his" baby

Christmas Day there were cupcakes and singing happy birthday to Jesus

And a special visit from someone sort of like Santa :) I was terrified but the boys thought he was hilarious

One of the days my dad let Gabe wax his fancy motorcycle- oh this kid was in heaven! 

My parents were so kind and watched all the big boys so my sister and us could check out some of the after Christmas sales at their really nice shopping area. We were able to get some great deals. Andrew did not buy this jersey however!

 The best shot of all the little squirmy boys- We just love them to bits and loved being together celebrating the birth of our Lord. The time always goes too quickly but I'm so thankful we got to have it! Thank You to Omie and Gramps for letting your home be filled with the squeals and messes and hopefully happy memories! We love you so much~