Cousins and jammies on Christmas Eve

Oma and Pompa came through this year and surprised the grandkids with new jammies. The nice thing was that once we got home from our late night at Oma's we just brushed teeth and went to bed! Yippie.

Christmas memories

We are so blessed to live in a community where there is a live nativity each year. It is utterly amazing with Mary, Joseph, baby Jesus, sheep, a camel, wisemen, a marketplace, hot chocolate, bread and so much more. It takes place along a beautiful stream in a ravine surrounded with oak trees and native grasses. Even though it is freezing, it is worth it.

Our Japanese Friends

Shiori cooks the girls a yummy banana treat!

Innsbrook "Izzie" Dunn

This is the litter that Izzie came from. She arrived to our family on

January 10, 2009 at 8 weeks old. Puppyhood is quite fun with lots of playing and biting. She is growing rapidly and will probably top out around 50 lbs.

Where does the time go

After fourteen years, Lourdes and I reunited for Sushi and Christmas lights. We were college chums, neighbors and sorority sisters. We had a great time catching up. I find it so amazing that we are so much alike and it was really great reminiscing and getting to know each other again.

Thanksgiving dinner with family and friends.

Just a few pics from Thanksgiving dinner. Our Japanese exchange student, Shiori was able to join us as well as our fun cousins Katie, Brandt and adorable baby Claire. Carter had a lot to ponder that evening, mostly about all of the things that he was thankful for and what he wants from Santa.

My chubby bald headed baby turns 6

OMGosh,I cannot believe that I am writing this and I'm actually tearing up. Sophie is 6 now and growing up so quickly. She is such a joy in our lives and a constant source of laughs and astonishment. She is quite the little inventor and loves all things that her dad loves. She is the son that we'll never have in a lot of ways but she offers her girliness on occasion and amazes us. Happy Birthday, Sophie. We love you so much.