Let It Snow!

Heather's boys were at our house when it began to snow! We watched from inside for a while, then when the ground was blanketed the boys went out to play. They had a great time in the snow, the first snow they have ever seen in College Station and the first snow that Ty and Nathan have ever seen. We wanted to capture the moment....it may be another 20 years before we see this much snow again!

Boys Just Wanna Have Fun

It was a beautiful December day and just right for exploring and playing outside. Ty and Nathan spent a few hours at our house and as you can see from the photos, they went non-stop from one activity to another. Steve and I enjoyed our day with them, hopefully as much as they enjoyed themselves. We hope Christmas week is just as nice so the kids can play outside with their gifts!

Happy Birthday Heather!

It was below zero when we headed for the hospital in Waterloo, Iowa those many years ago for the birth of our first daughter. Heather, we are so blessed by God to have you as our daughter. You have taken your failures and trials and by God's grace, turned them into triumphs. You have matured into a godly wife and mother and your joyful spirit is a testimony to your abiding faith. Today we wish you a very happy birthday with love.

Traditional Thanksgiving

We had a great time on Thanksgiving. My sister's family joined the Crouse clan for turkey and all the usual side dishes. The rest of the afternoon and evening was spent playing various games, while the kids played outdoors. I am truly thankful for each member of my family!

Austin's 12th Birthday

On December 2, 2008 Austin turned 12 years old. Watch out Heather and Kevin, he's nearly a teenager! We celebrated as a family the weekend before his birthday with bowling, dining out, cake, ice cream and gifts. The next weekend he had several friends over to eat pizza, have a campfire with smores, play Wii games, watch a movie and spend the night. Needless to say, Austin had a great birthday week. Stay sweet Austin, we're not ready for an unpredictable teen!

The Newest Crouse

We are so excited to announce the birth of our new niece, Kaitlyn Michele Crouse. She was born on November 7th. Congrats to Bart and Michele, brother Kurt, sisters Kayla and Kara.

Great Strides

On a cold and windy November 15th, Steve, Austin and I set out to run/walk in the Great Strides 5K. This is an event, sponsored by the "Breathe Hope" organization at Texas A&M, to raise funds for a cure for cystic fibrosis. Austin wasn't quite up to walking the full distance and we found out later that he was running a temperature - 103 when we got home! Even with the illness, we enjoyed the experience, met some new people, drank Starbucks and ate breakfast burritos. Next year we plan to run or walk the whole distance and get sponsors for fundraising. Please pray for a cure for cystic fibrosis.