HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

Well, it is the last day of the year. This time last year I was gearing up to have a baby. I can't believe Ben is going to be 1 soon. 2008 turned out to be one of the best years ever! I just wish it hadn't passed us by so quickly. We have been so very blessed to have such a wonderful family, good jobs, and our health.

We also have much to look forward to. Neil is starting grad school to obtain his masters in occupational safety management. I am taking a nutrition class through IUPUI. Ben's 1st birthday is January 18th, and Sofia is waiting on her two front teeth to appear. She continues Girl Scouts and jazz class, as well as being 6 going on 15. We are also excited about having new carpet installed in our downstairs bedrooms and hallway this weekend. That goes to show you how lame we are - getting excited about new carpet. I hope that 2009 is just as joyous as 2008. With a historic President in office and two young children in my house, I'm sure it will be at least as interesting!

Here are some pictures from our holiday marathon. Happy New Year!!!!!

Christmas Pictures

From Christmas Pictures

We had the kids pictures taken last night, and they turned out pretty good. Ben was a little scared of the photographer in the beginning, so Sofia went first. He got some good ones of them together and individuals too. They both ended up cooperating nicely, but not really at the same time! Everyone at the studio noticed Sofia is missing her two front teeth, as you can see. Look for prints to come your way soon!

Welcome Gavin Cole Kirstein!

Sofia has a new cousin! Gavin Cole was born 12/5/2008 on his sister Abby's 2nd birthday. He was 7 lbs. 12 oz. and 20.5 in. long. Sofia and I went to see them in the hospital on Saturday, and everyone was doing fine. They are home now recovering, and we plan on visiting soon. Sofia says he is "so cute", and I agree!