The Rissell's

Thursday, December 19, 2013

6th Grade Winter Band Concert

Tuesday night was Sophia's 1st official band concert. She was so very excited!! It was a success and made us proud. She really enjoys playing the flute.

All of our family in NC were able to attend. That made Sophia very happy!!

After the concert, we invited all back to our house for dessert. The Vang's came as well. Aliah & Sophia both play the flute and they are in our congregation! The evening was wonderful!

Sophia ~ over the past few months, you've practiced so much with your flute and it shows! You play beautifully!! Keep up the good work sweetie!!!

Sophia & Me before the concert

On stage before the concert

Our row

Daddy & Abigail

Aliah & Sophia after the concert

Our family

China, Sophia, Aliah & Abigail - enjoying dessert & white grape "fake wine"

Wednesday, December 11, 2013

Auntie & Uncle Visit

Kelly & Dennis flew in November 23rd for a week long visit. We were so happy to have them!! It had been 11 months since we saw them......way too long.

There was a lot of relaxing together, exercising together, laughing and enjoying each others company. Sophia was very happy to have them attend her horse riding lesson. What made it even more special was she cantered for the first time! She was so happy!! It was great! We truly appreciate them making the time to come & visit us. It meant a lot!!

We love you both!!!!

Chain counting down the days until they come!!

Having the giggles with Kelly

Books from Pops & Grandma

Us girls out for our walk/run

Electronic version of Monopoly!!!
It was so cool!

Abby bought this set with money from
Kelly & Dennis

Another horse lover on our hands!

Pretzel bites from Easy Bake oven

Dinner @ Pops & Grandma's

Mick & Kel

Making martini's

The final product.....so yummy!!

Mick & Ab

Our dinner

Puzzle time with the boys & Ab & Paisley

Mel, Kel & Me

Sophia & Paisley

Up & Down the River game

Sophia & Saurus

Abby's turn

Buttercup @ the stable

Ab feeding Buttercup

Love her expression - pure happiness!!

Bruno & Sophia

Out in the ministry Saturday AM

The girls & Kelly

All of us girls

Den & Kel

Tuesday, December 10, 2013

17th Anniversary!!!

November 23rd was our 17th Anniversary! Oh the memories over the years.....

Our anniversary includes our girls. We all share gifts with each other - even the girls for us! It is really cute and special. Sophia used her money and bought me a cookbook.....it was so sweet! And she made us a special card. Abigail made us a few projects for us, working on them over the weeks prior. They will be kept somewhere safe for us to remember.

Of course, we spoiled the girls.....because we love them so! And Josh spoiled me big time! iPad mini that I wanted but did not think he was going to get it for me AND a cozy pink robe from Victoria Secret. I gave Josh new darts and case (recommended by his dart buddy).

Besides the great gifts, we enjoyed spending the day together as a family. We went to a late breakfast at Cracker Barrel and relaxed before picking up Kelly & Den at the airport.

It was a wonderful day for us all!!!