Tiger Lily Home

Back to school! Ellie at Mount Royal University and Dex grade 10!

elliana and I had the best time setting up her dorm room! I collected all things coastal and cowgirl for about 6 months, and had everything ready to set up when she moved in. Such a large space to work with, and a view of the Rocky Mountains! She’s all set up and starting her freshman year at university!

Our trip to Calgary was one to remember! Ellie’s starting her year at Mount Royal University, and we loaded up our car and made the road trip through the Rockies. Daniel and Dex joined us for a few days, and my niece Malaya and her husband Ian hosted us at their home while we waited to move Ellie into dorms. Sightseeing, getting her to her softball practices everyday and just spending time together is something I’ll cherish forever.
18 yrs of guiding her, watching over her, doing everything together … and then that’s it? My job is done and I just walk away and leave her there? How can I totally put into words how lost I feel? Like I left half of myself in the dorms? I miss her singing when she comes down the stairs, the Starbucks runs, and the everyday chatter that she brings. I’m going to have to get used to this new quiet that the house is holding.
elliana I know you’ve got this! The cooking for yourself, starting a new university softball team, and getting to class… you’re already making wonderful friends and doing this on your own. We are so proud of you!!! Keep shining bright! We are home praying for you, that God will guide your every step. We love you!!! And thanks for the FaceTimes 😘🥰

Happy birthday to my youngest son, Dex! Give him a sport, he’ll play it. A mountain-he’ll climb it. Dex, we love watching the energetic life you live! You add adventure to our family, and we love cheering you on! Keep your eyes on Jesus, as you navigate these high school years. We’re praying for a wonderful year ahead for you. 15 years old!!! We’re so proud of you, and love you so much!

Happy 21st birthday to my first born, Ryken. Ryken, whether you are with your friends, helping manage a vintage clothing store, hiking to the top of a mountain, or throwing a 90 mile per hour fastball, you give it all you’ve got. We are so proud of you. We love your calm demeanor, your easy-going attitude, and your steady presence. You made me a mama, and you’ve made it easy. We love you so much and pray for God‘s blessings on this upcoming year. Happy Birthday!

Graduation day! So proud of you .brandsma08 !

Celebrating Ellie’s graduation with family and friends! Such a beautiful evening spending time together and congratulating our Ellie on this milestone in her life. We are so proud of you, Elliana! We love you!

My beautiful girl .brandsma08 all dressed up for prom with her wonderful boyfriend .dykema
You two make such a great couple, and we’re excited to see God’s plans for you this year!
Pics by the talented
Dress from

Our month of May - cheering at baseball/softball games, time spent with family and friends, and enjoying God’s beautiful creation!

Love these pictures of you ! Last one was taken 17 yrs ago. Time flies when you’re having fun!