Parkes Family

I can hardly wait to go to California... TOMORROW! We have been busy busy getting ready, wrapping presents, decorating (even the bannisters are wrapped!). Allison and I were able to spend some quality girl time together when John was in Indiana for five days at a racing trade show. Here are some pictures of the most entertaining three year on the planet (a little bias I suppose!) I do believe I will be making a greeting card with this picture... something about putting on your big girl panties and conquer the world already!

Thought I'd share my simple recipe for how I make spicy ranch that we use on everything from taco salad to burritos, etc. I literally use porportions of spice to dressing depending on the audience! Typically 2/3 ranch to 1/3 taco sauce is perfect! Or flip that ratio for more spice and less calories!! Enjoy!! 

I have been fortunate enough to have led a fit life. Now if you saw me walking down the street you may not guess I exercise daily. I don't think it will ever show THAT much. I have taught my daughter the benefits of working out and eating right. But the most important thing is that we have a balanced life in that we do many things and consider ourselves well rounded people!! Here are some of my favorite shots of Allison working out!

I have had a phenomenal last few weeks with family. It has really helped me remember what is important in life. I will not regret having left my job and spent these past couple months being with family for extended periods of time, staying home with Allison and preparing for the most magical time of the year, and loving on my husband. Starting in November I went to Yellowstone with my dad for a great trip we hadn't made together in nine years! Then Dad came here from California to spend a few days with us. A few days later I drove to Grand Rapids to spend the night with Mom and Bri only to later that day pick up Cassie and her boyfriend Ross (or "Woss" Allison says). We had fun-packed week full of Thanksgiving festivities! We have been lucky enough to keep Bri for an extra week and have Christmas Eve at the farm and then another Christmas at 'Parkes Place.' Also, I have finally finished my shadow box tribute to my favorite Cuz! We were fortunate enough to join our