********************52 Weeks*******************
52 Weeks is a year long challenge for YOU to be in a picture once a week for 52 weeks. We are always the ones behind the camera, this is YOUR chance to get out in front and be in the pictures with our family. We are glad you are joining this challenge. More importantly your family will really enjoy having you in the picture. Thanks for playing along! Oh, you can just jump in now with 1 of 52, you're not getting off that easy! Now go take a picture!
52 Weeks is a year long challenge for YOU to be in a picture once a week for 52 weeks. We are always the ones behind the camera, this is YOUR chance to get out in front and be in the pictures with our family. We are glad you are joining this challenge. More importantly your family will really enjoy having you in the picture. Thanks for playing along! Oh, you can just jump in now with 1 of 52, you're not getting off that easy! Now go take a picture!
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Happy Thanksgiving!!
Although I have SO much to be thankful for in my life. I am most thankful for my precious family. As a little girl, there wasn't a time when I didn't want a family of my own- a husband and kids.
Eight years ago this month (Nov 2 to be exact) this man became my best friend. Seven months later (June 15, 2002) we became husband and wife. One year and 5 months later (Nov 9, 2003) our dream came true. We became parents.
Being a mother is one of the hardest thing I've done. The responsibility, at times is frightening and overwhelming.
The benefits, however, are endless, amazing and truly indescribable.
While the road we have traveled to get to where are today hasn't always been easy. It has been worth every single step of every single mile. 
I am thankful today.
Happy Thanksgiving from our family to yours!
The credit may have to go to this little man.
You see, Benji colored a picture of a BIG buck for Daddy to take hunting opening morning. For good luck. So while the jury is out to decide if the good luck was because of Benji's picture or my good luck kiss, or a combo of both, or maybe the fact that the mighty hunter is just that good...
At the time, we were milking cows with Uncle Joe and Aunt Heather. You would be proud to know your mother did chores ALL by herself quite often, while Daddy worked late in the woods. Your pregnancy was an enjoyable one. NO morning sickness, no problems, no troubles. I loved every minute of it.
Late Wed. Nov 5, I was awakened by contractions. Every 10 minutes. Being 1st time parents we were all ready to run into the hospital right then. But we were told to wait until they get closer together. Thurs morning they stopped. Then to start up later that day. Then stop. Then start. Always 10 minutes apart. By Friday night it was constant. Every 10 minutes. Finally Saturday (Nov 8- Boppa Ben's bday!) night, Daddy was getting 
The hospital graciously allowed us to come in for observation. IF nothing progressed, they'd send us home at midnight. I wasn't dilated very far when we arrived (maybe 2cm), but contractions were getting somewhat stronger, but still 10 or so minutes apart. At midnight, we got the option to go home, or to spend the night there. We chose to spend the night.
About 3:30 am (Sun. Nov 9) my water broke while I was going to the bathroom. That gave us a 'do NOT go home-go directly to labor suite' pass. Contractions picked up from there. From 3:30am till about 2:00 pm I did everything I knew possible to stay calm, focused and work with my body to get things going. (In the meantime, my parents and sister, left right after Sunday mtg. and were 
At 4:00pm exactly, you were born! A boy! 7#12 oz. 20" 
It seems like in just the blink of an eye you went from newborn to big brother to the 6 year old you are today. There is no denying, you are your Father's son. From looks, to 'attitude', to likes/dislikes. We love each and every trait that makes you the special boy you are. Like when you fall asleep in our bed and rub our ears (or any body's ears.. at given anytime). Or how you used to stutter when you were little.. or when you got real excited. Or how you can gallop like a horse. Or how you love your little brother SO much. Or your blueberry blue eyes that just make us putty in your hands. Or your new way to reason with us (6 yr old logic). Or how you rub someone's back/shoulder when they are hurt/upset. I could go on and on. Today is your special day. 
