Merry Christmas

December has been quite eventful - new pets, some Christmas festivities, a crunched bumper (no, I am not going to talk about this), a little sickness, and a new backyard. What a month and ending to 2008.

So, we got new pets - yes, one for Austin, one for Emma. So, is it a crazy dog with slobbery kisses? A hairy cat, mom is allergic to? Lizards like the ones at the doctor? fish? All exciting choices, but we got some baby turtles. The one that is bigger is Tickly and the one with more polka dots on the back is Sarafena. They are fun and have their own little personalities. Plus we got the turtles that have skills - they ride in carts and hide in boxes. :)

We went to zoolights this year - I've never been, so it was fun to go. The kids had fun. The highlights were being with friends, riding the merry-go-round, touching the sting rays and sharks, and getting cool glow light toys.

Then there was Christmas - which wasn't what we expected or planned on, but it was fun anyways (it is amazing how things can turn out fun even when things go differently than expected).
We were suppose to spend Christmas in Utah with family and see my "little brother" come home after 2 years on a mission in South Africa; however, we didn't make it. Good 'ole cough and cold found its way to our home at exactly the wrong time. I guess this was a blessing in disguise because we really had some great family time here at home.

here are the kids putting the finishing touches on the cake for Jesus' birthday.

And sprinkling some reindeer dust to so Santa would find them.

And the big day arrived. Austin ran downstairs (as mom and dad are half asleep) and started counting the presents and ran to get Emma. Finally we all made it downstairs and started opening the presents. Emma wasn't sure about opening presents at first - she tried to get Todd to open it for her and finally resorted to using her teeth. lol There's got to be a better way.

So here is a glimpse of Christmas:

The kids already decided what they are going to be for Halloween - a doctor and a princess. Let's see how many times that changes before October. :)

So, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year's. I hope everyone had some fun while also remembering the true meaning of Christmas - the birth of the Savior Jesus Christ. As New Year's approaches and resolutions are fresh in our minds, may we remember to be a little better and dedicate a little more of our lives to Him.

Family Photo Session

Here is a another great family photo session. It is really a pleasure to hang out with these wonderful families. This family was no exception. It is amazing spend time with these families - to get a glimpse of their lives - the pouts, the smiles, refusal to be in the photo, running around and getting dirty, playing spiderman and of course, laughs and smiles too.

It shouldn't be surprising that this requires a lot of running for me - exercise is good for you. :)

Check out the fun photos in the slideshow: