This was the year:

We traveled: Chicago, New York City, San Francisco (3 times), Las Vegas (3 times), Kern River and Corcoran
We rocked out: Britney Spears, Nicki Minaj, Usher, Oingo Boingo cover band
We raised: 2 fire-bellied frogs, 1 teddy bear hamster, 3 happy healthy Chihuahuas
We read: Me (3 complete books), Avery (too many to remember)
We braved: Parenting a middle-schooler, white water rafting, and few home inprovement projects
We cheered on: Club Soccer, flag football, gymnastics, baseball, tackle football, and a 11-1 Varsity football season
We learned: Alot about photography, running an unofficial business, and that parenting a middle-schooler isn't so bad.
We continued: Cub Scouts and Girl Scouts
We lost: a few pounds (and gained a few as well)
We loved: The incredible opportunities this year has presented and can't wait to see what's in store for the next

Happy New Year.

you can never have too many

From the Lego store...

To home...

 

  I hope Davin never outgrows this passion.

one final check.

Nothing tops The Grove in LA at Christmas time.

We caravan-ed up to show Judy (Frank's mom) just how Southern California does snow.  In 75 degree weather, we all danced around as the machine-pumped soapy snow bubbles fell magically upon us while Sinatra sang in the background.  Ohio's got nuthin' on US!

And with that our holiday to-do checklist was complete.

photobooth fun.

slowly but surely figuring out all the amenities.

Christmas wrap up

gifts, food, and family.  another blessed beyond belief year!

oh you better not pout

The Grand Californian Hotel at Disneyland never disappoints, but it is Christmas on steroids in December. Our friends, The McCaffer's, tipped us off to the best hint of the season... a visit with Santa in this beautiful setting. He was the real deal.  After making it just in time to be second to last in line, It was well worth the wait.

Hunter requested Nike's, which Santa promptly came back with, "Why, I'm not a clothing store.  I don't make clothes.  What about a toy?"  and with that, Hunter was stumped.

Davin requested Legos for the 9th year in a row.  A boy can never have too many.

Avery requested a Nintendo DSi, which much to my relief Santa replied, "Well my bag is packed already, and you know it takes four days to do that, so I'll see what I've got once I get to La Mirada."

Whew... Thanks for the "gray" answer Santa.  An answer which leaves room for forgiveness on Christmas morning rather than disappointment.  I really like this Santa.

We've been on a fast and furious pace to check off our traditions list.  And now a day of wrapping, double church services, and family.  Merry Christmas Eve.

first timers

The lights in Brea we're everything everyone had said they'd be.  Even better with my sissy by my side.

mini bakerella

 Another year of Angel Finger-making, and it seems we have ourselves another tradition.  Avery could bake everyday.  It must be some sort of therapy for her, which is fine by me.

 One part baking, one part silly.  Love her.

And as usual, they were gone in a flash. yum.  Grandma Ruby's recipe here.

under the lights

 Two nights this week the boys' flag football teams have played under the lights at Whittier College.  Exciting for them.  Freeeeeezing for the onlookers.  But worth it.  Spartans had 2 wins and a tie.  Not bad.

And what team would be complete without the help of some fans?

reindeer games.

Another successful Cub Scout Pack Meeting complete with ornament decorating, games, gift exchange, cookies, and hot chocolate.  So proud of my Webelo!  Sometimes its hard to believe this is year 4.