Ray, Amanda, Raeanne, and Isabel along with Graham’s pony, Gunny.

Oooohhhh do I LOVE red heads!

My first vivid memory of Raeanne was when she was about 4 months old.  We were having an Easter play at church and somehow I managed to get my hands on Raeanne during the play (I was in it and was on stage as a random peasant woman).  I held her during the performance and she was all nestled in a purple blanket that brought out her red hair and enormous eyes.  I think she was AMAZING to look at.  I still do.    Amanda later made me a couple of BEAUTIFUL baby blankets in girl colors with intricate cross stitching.  I had them in my girl box for YEARS before I got to use them.

My first vivid memory of Isabel was one of disappointment when Ray wouldn’t let us call her Bella.  I am still a little annoyed at that frankly (hee hee).  She was just a few months old and was swinging in a baby swing while on a camping trip up north.  Another red head and her hair was so darling and curly.   Isabel is a beauty in her own right.  I figure if Tanner should marry one of these two someday, we can pretty well ensure red headed grand children.  Wouldn’t that be something?    It wasn’t raining when Noah built the ark you know.  One must plan in advance. 

Several years ago, when Raeanne and Tanner were babies, Amanda and I (for reasons I have long since forgotten), found ourselves driving up north together to meet our husbands on a large family camping trip.  We stopped along the way in Camp Verde to get some food.   As we walked in, I noted that we were likely to get inquisitive looks from people.  Amanda and I with our black hair and Tanner and Raeanne both striking red heads.  I have never forgotten Amanda’s comment to that.  She told me that more than likely everyone would simply assume we were the nannies.  LOL.  Over the years, people have actually asked her that.  FOR.  REAL.