mom's new ride!!!

Indiana look out, mom's going off roading:) Its a super nice car!!

janelle

YES, i look haggard in all these photos, but i loved sadie's face and her trying so hard to figure out those vampire teeth...

Balloon Fiesta

Mel and I went to the International Balloon Fiesta in Albuquerque, New Mexico this weekend. As you can see from the pictures, it was an amazing and inspiring sight. For the first time in a long time, I felt like a little kid again. I hope everyone is able to feel the same once in a while. I am particularly proud of the shot I got of the Vader balloon heading towards the rising sun. Also, I was enlisted as a balloon crew member when the winds whipped up. I ran to the aid of one balloon and was instrumental in preventing it from tipping. -Ryan

Mel's commentary: I heard about the balloon fiesta last year and knew I had to go. It was completely worth the six hour drive. All of the spectators get to join the field of hundreds (over 700) balloons and watch them inflate and then litter the sky. We were so close we could have jumped in the baskets. There was one moment where I got separated from the group but instead of looking for them, I just turned and stared up into the sky. I couldn't miss a moment of it. It was amazing. I highly suggest we all take a family vacation there next year. And as you can tell by the photo, Ryan was busy helping the balloon crew but not busy enough to forget about striking a pose.

Nothing to Say but this.....

I have absolutely nothing in particular to say. It's 11:37 pm and I am still awake. This is abnormal for me. I ususally fall asleep around 10:30. I've been trying to think of something interesting to say on the blog so I can spark some life back into it. I was just reading some of the old posts that we had and they were hilarious. I'm not running anymore. I've become my own worst nightmare. I used to be so energized and eager to monitor everyone's exercise habits. Now I have to worry about my own. I've become a hypocrite basically. I'll have to try again. Just some thoughts I've had about everyone,

Jen, I enjoy talking to you on the phone. You set a great example for all of us. I'm glad you are trying to live a healthy lifesyle. I really enjoyed your post about christian's soccer game. Tell him great job!
Ron, I hope your job is going well. I don't know how you do it, but you always manage to be upbeat and happy.
Janelle, I'm excited for little Jane. I think that is a cute name. Post some pictures of her and your other little ones. Stay positive. One of the talents you possess that I wish I had is your ability to turn a mess into a masterpiece.
Michael, you are a strong influence for Janelle and handy when it comes to fixing dish washers. Find out where she hides her treats so that I may partake when I come again.
Mike, you are a very sweet individual. Stay faithful in the Gospel.
Ryan, you are a rock and will most certainly go far in life. Thank you for all that you do. Everyone enjoys your company.
Melanie, You are very creative and know how to enjoy life. Keep it up!
Jon, You are the entertainer. You always make people laugh with your antics. Thank you for always being willing to play games.
Evan, You are very smart. You have an interesing take on life. Stay positive.

Mom, You are tough. You have a peaceful demeanor. Remember that we all love you. You are the matriarch of this family and have much to offer us in the years to come.

Dad, We miss you and love you. We know we aren't separted from you forever!

Amy

Evans Court of Honor:)

These are from Michael's blackberry, so, not the best quality...

i am going to use blurb.com and slurp our blog into a book for publishing. when you get a chance please add some memories or happy thoughts you have about dad to add to the book before i send it in for printing. i mean, do it in the next few weeks.
thanks janelle