Gary turns 50!!!!

Five - Zero! Dan getting in the action ;)

Grant helping daddy light his candles!

Ian helping daddy blow out his candles with his gun!

The love of my life turns 50! Gary Norman Cooper. He is the very best thing that has ever happened to me. He actually wanted a small party so we had a last minute family party with family that lived close. Cake and ice cream and lots of laughs. Turning 50 is bitter sweet...you are sure glad you made it that far, but you know that you may be in the older crowd for others to look up to... which isn't so bad. Ours kids keep us thinking young and very active which we are thankful to God for that blessing. He truly is my best friend and I LOVE this guy!!!

Happy Birthday Snookums!

Grant and his missing teeth

Grant lost alot of teeth this year, but they grow back in so fast that I was happy I have a couple pictures of the jack o lantern look. Also, I threw in a picture of his prized bear, Boo. He is a great kid full of questions and they are getting more difficult. He is very interested in Math and Science. He has lots of questions about animals. He loves to negotiate with people and we think he may have some "lawyer" abilities in his future.

Ian shaving like DAD
Ian a birthday party CAT!

Ian on the firetruck for Derby Days

Ian is just a fun loving boy that enjoys being silly. He loves to have fun. His firetruck ride was a highlight of the year. I wouldn't be surprised if he is a volunteer someday.

Brothers

Sometimes it is a challenge to get these brothers having a down moment. Here is proof that it actually does happen. They are competitive, but deep down we know how they feel. :)

Much LOVE

Learning to write is so fun! I caught Grant at one of his soft moments in his room. :)
I LOVE this kid!

Pictures are sometimes enough to tell a story. Typical day on the farm with daddy finding his boys a little muddy????

Uncle Mark and Auntie Dark...

Uncle Mark and Ian

Auntie Dark (DarDar) and Ian

These are two of my favorite pictures of Ian with his aunt and uncle. I have 3 sisters and I don't know what I would do without them. They have been such a support to us and our boys. They have been there through all the good and bad times. I haven't had parents most of my adult life, but have had these 3 sisters to lean on. What a blessing!
Mark is our greek brother in law. He is loud and fun. He can cook Greek and American food like a chef. He has a passion for plants and cooking. I was able to visit him and my sister in Greece years ago and they showed us the country. Such a beautiful place to explore. Darlene and Mark enjoy working, cooking and love garage sales!!! I think that runs in the family.
LOVE them!!!!