How many were there?

There seems to be some disagreement over how many people actually showed up in Washington DC on the National Mall for this historic inauguration. Was it hundreds of thousands, one million, 1.2 million, 1.8 million, 2 million? I have watched the coverage and seen the pictures, and one thing is clear. The entire nation seemed to be involved in this moment in history. I couldn't even watch it live online because every major news station was overrun with viewers. I was told on CNN's website that I would be placed in line to wait for space to open up.



Crazy!

But, at the same time, exciting. Exciting that so many Americans would be involved in the political process; that so many people would be clinging on every word looking for hope, looking for commitment, looking toward the future.

May God's blessings be upon our Nation, and may we never lose sight that we are His and He is ours. Amen and Hallelujah!

Riley's Birthday

So, my stepson Riley turned three years old on Dec. 29th. We had a great time celebrating this past weekend at Jump Extreme, the ultimate bounce house. Usually I am anti-bounce house. It's always very hot and sweaty, and there's lots of yelling. You know how much I enjoy my peace and quiet. :) However, I must say that NiNi (that's what Riley calls me), had a great time! This place was incredible. There were like 8 different jumping things, all spread out in these huge arenas (which cuts down the noise considerably). There were bouncers for toddlers all the way to grown ups. Here are some pics:


The Spiderman Cupcake Extravaganza




Daddy getting stuck down the slide



Hannah taking a break from jumping to pose for a photo op



Devyn flinging himself down the slide



Riley and cousin Callie taking their turn



DO I have to take a break already?



Our guests



More guests



We ALL got stuck in this spot. But I'll not show any of the really incriminating photos!