Welcome 2011 !

Wow, 2010 flew by in a flash. Looking back I am amazed how fast a year has gone by. One of the greatest things that happened was that Madison turned 8 in October and was baptized in December. She is such an amazing young lady and was excited and prepared for this great moment in her life. It was a great day and Joe did a great job baptizing and confirming her. Maddie is joy in our lives and such a calming sweet spirit in our home. She really balances the "crazy Woolstenhulme personalities" in our family. She is so smart and loves reading and anything crafty, she is so creative. Maddie is the "light" in our home.

Carter is growing into such an awesome little man. He'll turn 7 this year and desperately wants his own dirt bike. He has an electric one but assures us he's ready "to ride a dirt bike (gas powered) like the big boys"! I don't know if this mom is ready for him to grow up and ride but it's what he loves to do. Hopefully this year isn't full of injuries! Carter is learning more each day and doing great in math. His reading is coming along too. We can butt heads at times (I think we kinda have the same stubbornness) but generally he's great.

Macady, aka Bella, is quite the little mini-mom. Lots of my relatives tell me she looks/acts just like I did at that age. I can for sure attest to the bossiness and stubborn nature she has. Bella tends to rule the household and thinks she pretty much knows everything. I really think she thinks she the boss! She just turned 4 and I can't believe my baby's not a baby anymore. She loves playing computer games and logins herself. She loves having "her kids" read to her and play school with her.

Last year we had a blast camping and off roading with my family. We love being outdoors and love going to Yellowstone, hiking, camping, fishing, etc. In August, we made a BIG decision to try and homeschool the kids this year through the Utah K12 program (which is structured, provides all the materials & is free!) We talked to the kids and really tried to make the best decision for our family. Madison was/ is advanced for her age/grade level and Carter needed/needs more one on one instruction. We felt/feel working on school at home could/would/does address these issues. It's definately been a challenge and at times by the end of the day/week I'm wondering what I'm thinking and doing but overall it's been and is a good experience. The kids seems to be learning and I'm finding that I enjoy being with them each and every day.

This year we are hoping to camp, fish, & ride more and definately spend more time together as a family. I'm also going to try and blog more but seeing it's been a year since I last blogged, we'll wait and see. Happy 2011! Wishing you all a great year.