Category Archives: family

Dynamic Duo

After our West Virginia visit this fall, I came home with some pictures of the Manka side of the family. Looking at those pictures got me thinking of the legacy my grandparents left to me. Grandma & Grandpa were a … Continue reading

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And Uncle Jon Stayed

...to spend another week with us (well, almost a week). Silas didn’t have to give up his uncles all at once. We had a slow-paced week after the excitement of the holidays. Jon helped me un-decorate the house on Monday. … Continue reading

Posted in arizona attractions, family, holidays, house, silas | 1 Comment

Moody Family Christmas

Christmas and New Year spent with family is the best. We were blessed that our family came to visit for the holidays. Mom, Dad, Jon, Tim & Ben flew out on Christmas Eve to spend the celebrations with our trio. … Continue reading

Posted in arizona attractions, family, holidays, vacation | 1 Comment

Valley of the Sun meets Land of the Midnight Sun

My sister lives in Alaska. I just like saying that. She lives in Ketchikan to be exact. Did you know Ketchikan is on an island? I didn’t, until last month. Surprisingly, I’ve seen more Alaskan license plates here in Phoenix … Continue reading

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An Aunt That’s Really Great

This weekend Aunt Debby came to stay with us for a few days. She and her mom were visiting a cousin here in the Phoenix area, and Aunt Debby was able to spend some time with us too! How special … Continue reading

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Wild, Wonderful West Virginia

We didn’t have much time in WV after the wedding, but my sister Rebekah did show me around her classroom. For the past few years she’s been teaching K4 & K5 and has cute stories to tell about it! My … Continue reading

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Bitty Boy Explores the Beloved Farm

Chuck and Laura now live in the farmhouse on Retaliation, Pop-pop’s farm. They graciously opened their home to Mom, Ruth Anna, and us when we drove to Maryland for Allison’s wedding. Although the house is set up differently, the farmhouse … Continue reading

Posted in family, silas, vacation | 2 Comments

Cranberry Wedding

Congratulations to my cousin, Allison, and Mike who became Mr. and Mrs. Blankenship on November 5th! Allison chose a beautiful cranberry red for her wedding color. Her sister Laura was the matron of honor, and our cousin, Chris, was a … Continue reading

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My 1st Birthday Party

I’m the Birthday Boy! Grandma colored a banner for me, and Great Grandpa and Great Grandma Bell came to celebrate. Mommy cooked a yummy chicken supper, and then I opened my presents while we Skyped with Aunt Charis all the … Continue reading

Posted in baby, family, silas, vacation | 3 Comments

Over the River and Through the Woods

To Grandma’s house we go! (Yes, Grandma was fully prepared with a stash of empty paper towel tubes. Silas found this wrapping paper tube our first day home, and he fell in love.) Our week has been packed with friends … Continue reading

Posted in family, vacation | 2 Comments