Hutchinson Happenings 2012

Hutchinson Happenings 2012 has been condensed

to The Top Ten

in no particular order

1. We had an amazing Christmas with everyone at home. Lots of time together and a family portrait (the reason for our delayed greeting).

2. Caleb received his Eagle rank in Scouting.

3. After saving for months, Jecia paid cash for her first car, a red Nissan Xterra. Very sporty and fun off-road.

4. Jake completed his third semester of law school and ran his first half marathon.

5. Eliza discovered she loves the Oregon coast and crabbing when she and Jake traveled there for their 2nd anniversary.

6. Ethan and Caleb marched with their band in the National Memorial Day Parade in Washington D.C.

7. Ethan (and the rest of the band) swept every Nevada competition and took 3rd in Bands of America Finals this fall. Think 8 minutes of intense aerobic exercise, carrying a 40 pound instrument, while playing complex music, keeping perfect posture at all times. It was an amazing program!

8. Marshall & Colleen hosted another tour of the Holy Land in June with a wonderful group of people.

9. We started a backyard makeover by adding a brick fire pit that has become our favorite gathering spot.

10. Jecia took Caleb skydiving for his 18th birthday and they both survived. She is the coolest sister ever!

Christmas 2012

What a glorious Christmas! Everyone was home this year. We had a slight scare when Jake and Eliza's Christmas Eve flight was delayed - twice, but they arrived about 8:30 to share our feast.  Marshall made barrel chicken in their honor - a break from our traditional ham.  We stayed up way too late visiting but managed to remember the annual photo in front of the tree Christmas morning. Note that pajamas were replaced by athletic wear this year because that is what they all sleep in, and it seems silly to purchase something they would only wear one night.  It was a big hit with everyone.

Marshall trying out his new camp chair with side table while I admire my new tea kettle. Gifts from the boys.

We had a leisurely Christmas day.  After opening gifts and foraging for left overs,  we went to the noon showing of Les Miserables in the theaters. In the evening we packed for a trip to Ramah and selected wardrobe for our family photo.

Jecia arranged family portraits as a Christmas gift.  We met Cheryl Snow (www.cherlypsnow.com) at the Clark County Museum at 9:00 am on December 26 for our shoot. I love the results!  Thanks for a lovely gift Jecia!  Here are a few group shots.

This train photo was just for fun.

We left for Ramah after our portraits and had a wonderful three day stay.  It was Jake's first trip to Ramah so Jecia and Eliza made sure he got the VIP tour.  We made some of Mother's fudge and it turned out perfect.

This is the creamiest fudge I have made in years. 
The cold weather, humidity and elevation are perfect for this recipe.

We went shooting past the old rodeo grounds.  This is our favorite place for target shooting.

Jecia, Eliza, Jakob, Tanya & Colleen

Ethan, Jecica, Jacob Lewis, Caleb & Jakob