christmas at the ranch

My sister did such a great job posting about our trip to the ranch on her blog, that I've been dragging my feet to do my own post.  We went to the ranch last year also, but this visit was extra special this year because we were joined  by Kate's family and the cousins all got a chance to experience the rustic fun all together.  Unfortunately, the weather was a bit uncooperative and we were surrounded by a big muddy mess, but we made the best of it in our high rubber boots.  The kids got to run wide open and sideways (as my dad says); they saw animals like pigs, javelina and deer; and they went on countless golf cart rides with my dad.  They even got to experience getting stuck in the mud!

I enjoy trips to the ranch because it's such an important piece of our family history, and I also like that we get to spend more personal time visiting with family members there as opposed to being at the family reunion where there are so many people that it's difficult to spend time visiting.

Christmas Eve was cold and wet, but we ventured across the mud alley from my parents' cabin over to my Aunt Kay's cabin and we all got together to enjoy a fabulous meal prepared by Amy's husband, Jesus.  He made yummy, chicken mole sandwiches and a spicy soup, and we also had chili and tamales.  Perfect!  We were in tight quarters, but all the kids had a blast.  It felt like a Christmas Eve just the way it should be - cozy, surrounded by family and enjoying good food.



Silly Zadie and Isabelle at Aunt Kay/Aunt Dana's cabin on Christmas Eve.


The girls miss living close to Nick and they took full advantage of spending time with him on this trip.  As you can see, Nick was a pretty good sport about it.


I love this big, genuine smile from Skipperdoodle.



Me hanging out with Zadie and Sophie in my parents' cabin.


A chilly evening by the fire...with some wine to warm us up!


Beloved Aunt Dana with rodeo stickers to entertain the little girls.


Zadie pretending she is a deer.


My city boy nephews, Nick and Austin, sitting by the campfire.


My dad graciously serving as chauffer once again.  This is by far the most popular form of entertainment at the ranch!


Mamas Kate and Tori with their boys.


My mom was trying to lay down and get some rest on her bed, but her grandkids couldn't stay away and felt like a dogpile was more appropriate.  Who needs rest?!

I love this picture of Austin with my dad - great smile!